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What is Health Economics and Outcomes Research (HEOR)


Health economics and health outcomes research is a scientific field that lies at the intersection of economic theory, statistical research, and health care. Today, research in this field is as important as clinical trials of drugs and medical technology. At the same time, unlike laboratory research, it provides data on how certain drugs and techniques work and how effective they are in real-world settings.

What is HEOR


HEOR brings together two crucial branches of science - health economics and outcomes research.

Health economics studies the cost of drugs and health care and the factors affecting pricing and quality of care. The study and analysis of clinical trial results and economic data by experts in this field allows health care resources to be used cost-effectively.

Outcomes research is a branch of science that focuses on studying and optimizing the results of various medical procedures. The main task of outcome researchers is to provide data on whether a particular drug or clinical process is beneficial for the patient and to develop strategies to address the shortcomings of certain medical interventions that have been identified in practice.

HEOR research combines these two areas.

The main purpose of HEOR

These studies are conducted to establish how medications and procedures work in the real world. Such studies complement and refine clinical trials, which are the initial evidence for the effectiveness and safety of a drug or medical procedure.

The data from HEOR research helps merchants, healthcare professionals, and the government make important decisions related to the prescribing, specific use, and cost of specific medications and health care in general.

What questions HEOR answers

HEOR research provides answers to questions such as:

  • How effective, safe, and beneficial a particular treatment procedure is; 
  • How a specific protocol of treatment differs from its competitors;
  • The cost and economic value of treatment;
  • the impact of certain medications and medical procedures on patients' quality of life in the short and long term. 

In other words, HEOR research is focused primarily on patients and allows to determine the real effectiveness and cost of treatment.

HEOR Instruments and Methodology

HEOR studies are based on economic data and data from medical records, insurance claims, surveys and patient questionnaires. They use analytical tools, economic models, cost-benefit collection and analysis methods, and other scientific methodologies.

How Outcomes Research Influences Health Care Costs

Modern medicine offers many solutions for treating a single disease. However, they vary in the choice and protocol of pharmaceuticals, patient care, and choice of medical devices.

Through HEOR research, the advantages and disadvantages of each of these solutions can be learned, both economically and medically. It helps consumers, health care providers and representatives of the ministry of health to choose the best value for money from all the options. HEOR research also informs drug pricing and health care financing calculations.

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