2. Comparing relevant alternatives

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1. Comparing relevant alternatives

1.5. Using a standard approach

Given the potential for variation, it is essential, within a high-quality assessment, that the rationale behind cost estimate and health outcomes and the sources of data used to assess these are clearly documented. Many health systems have developed guidance for economic evaluation. This avoids a situation where an evaluation of one technology looks more attractive than another simply because the analyst used different underlying assumptions and approaches during the assessment.

A database of such guidelines is currently maintained by the International Society for Pharmacoeconomics and Outcomes Research (ISPOR) ISPOR - PE Guideline Detail. The European Network for Health Technology Assessment (EUnetHTA) has published a guideline ’Methods for health economic evaluations - A guideline based on current practices in Europe’ representing a consolidated view of non-binding recommendations of EUnetHTA network members on current practices in the EU[1]. Despite the availability of these guidelines, many are often not properly adhered to. This can lead to inconsistent or overly favourable or overly negative findings in some cases.in the EU[2]. Despite the availability of these guidelines, many are often not properly adhered to. This can lead to inconsistent or overly favourable or overly negative findings in some cases.in the EU[3]. Despite the availability of these guidelines, many are often not properly adhered to. This can lead to inconsistent or overly favourable or overly negative findings in some cases.