Managing Cost-Effectiveness of Treatment Methods in Children with Cancer: a Review Study

Cost-effectiveness evaluation of therapeutic interventions is important for optimal allocation of resources in the health sector, especially in developing countries. This research is a narrative review aiming at comparison of treatment methods in children with cancer.

The present study was conducted by searching four databases, SID, Scopus, Pubmed and Google Scholar using keywords (cost-effectiveness, economic evaluation, cost-benefit, cost, cancer, and children) to find related articles published between 2000 and 2020. The obtained articles were included in the study after complying with the inclusion criteria.

After checking the inclusion criteria, 8 studies were included in the present review. In most studies, surgical procedures or newer drugs (such as laparoscopy or recombinant drugs) were more cost-effective. Most of the studies had examined the economic value of treatment methods in the form of cost-benefit analysis.

Primary studies of cost-benefit analysis in the field of health interventions are increasing. Because such analyzes can play an important role in optimizing the use of resources and facilities and improving health status of communities. Review studies can help health managers and policymakers by summarizing the results of primary studies for proper financial planning.