US BIO investigates comparative effectiveness

A new paper issued by the US Biotechnology Industry Organization, titled: The Complexities of Comparative Effectiveness, argues that the seemingly simple idea of comparative effectiveness is actually quite complex. The white paper, written by the BIO's director of economic policy, Ted Buckley, aims to educate readers about the term "comparative effectiveness" and the conceptual complexities inherent in comparative effectiveness analysis, the group said.

According to the BIO, the primary goal of comparative effectiveness should be to increase the availability of accurate, scientific evidence to inform clinical decision making. In the paper, however, Dr Buckley explains that, while comparative effectiveness can be a valuable tool to inform the decision making of the clinician and the patient, it cannot provide simple, "one size fits all" answers.

The report also examines issues impacting the implementation and efficacy of comparative effectiveness studies, including: the lack of a standard definition for comparative effectiveness; the challenges inherent in applying population-based study results to the needs of the individual patient; and the challenges in changing practise patterns.