Health Economics and Outcomes Research Knowledge Needs Assessment for Latin America

Abstract

BackgroundAn increasing awareness of the importance of health economics and outcomes research (HEOR) skills has been reported in Latin America. There is, however, no published study directly assessing perceived knowledge levels and knowledge gaps on specific HEOR topics among professionals and students in the region. ObjectivesTo assess perceived HEOR knowledge levels and identify knowledge gaps in Latin America. MethodsAn online needs assessment survey was developed to quantify perceived HEOR knowledge levels and identify knowledge gaps. Members of the International Society for Pharmacoeconomics and Outcomes Research in the Latin American region, regional chapters, and student chapter presidents were invited to participate in the survey. The survey, developed using the SurveyMonkey tool, was distributed to participants electronically. Data were extracted from the survey and analyzed using Microsoft Excel. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics to summarize the survey respondents' demographic information, current and desired knowledge levels, and preferred method/format for delivery of educational training. ResultsSurvey responses were collected from 106 participants. The largest knowledge gap was calculated for methods for integrating medication adherence and persistence in health economic evaluations (mean = 2.30 ± 1.48). The smallest knowledge gap was calculated for types of healthcare costs (mean = 1.01 ± 1.17). Most respondents (74% [n = 66]) preferred to receive educational materials related to HEOR topics through online learning and continuing education programs. ConclusionsThe knowledge gap assessment provided current knowledge gap perceptions among members of the International Society for Pharmacoeconomics and Outcomes Research in Latin America. The survey data collected support a need for developing educational programs for topics with the highest perceived knowledge gap.