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Published in: International Journal of Public Health 3/2016

Open Access 01-04-2016 | Review

A systematic literature review of the key challenges for developing the structure of public health economic models

Authors: Hazel Squires, James Chilcott, Ronald Akehurst, Jennifer Burr, Michael P. Kelly

Published in: International Journal of Public Health | Issue 3/2016

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Abstract

Objectives

To identify the key methodological challenges for public health economic modelling and set an agenda for future research.

Methods

An iterative literature search identified papers describing methodological challenges for developing the structure of public health economic models. Additional multidisciplinary literature searches helped expand upon important ideas raised within the review.

Results

Fifteen articles were identified within the formal literature search, highlighting three key challenges: inclusion of non-healthcare costs and outcomes; inclusion of equity; and modelling complex systems and multi-component interventions. Based upon these and multidisciplinary searches about dynamic complexity, the social determinants of health, and models of human behaviour, six areas for future research were specified.

Conclusions

Future research should focus on: the use of systems approaches within health economic modelling; approaches to assist the systematic consideration of the social determinants of health; methods for incorporating models of behaviour and social interactions; consideration of equity; and methodology to help modellers develop valid, credible and transparent public health economic model structures.
Appendix
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Metadata
Title
A systematic literature review of the key challenges for developing the structure of public health economic models
Authors
Hazel Squires
James Chilcott
Ronald Akehurst
Jennifer Burr
Michael P. Kelly
Publication date
01-04-2016
Publisher
Springer International Publishing
Published in
International Journal of Public Health / Issue 3/2016
Print ISSN: 1661-8556
Electronic ISSN: 1661-8564
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00038-015-0775-7

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Acknowledgement to Reviewers

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