Health Economic Analysis of Electrochemotherapy in Ireland.

Dr. Frances Drummond, Dr. Ann Kirby, Ms. Orla Dolan, Dr. Aileen Murphy, Prof James Clover,  and Ms. Olivia Kitau

Breakthrough Cancer Research with support from The Hospital Saturday Fund, has awarded funding to Dr. Aileen Murphy, Dr. Ann Kirby, and Prof. James Clover to conduct a study on the health economics analysis of electrochemotherapy in Ireland. This research, led by the Department of Economics at Cork University Business School (CUBS) and Cancer Research at UCC, aims to assess the cost-effectiveness and potential impact of this innovative cancer treatment.

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in Ireland with 11,000 new cases diagnosed each year. Electrochemotherapy (ECT) is a new procedure for skin cancer, that can be used when other treatments are unsuitable or do not work. This treatment can be more effective at destroying the cancer cells while using less medication, compared to other treatments. It is typically a day procedure, offering greater effectiveness than standard chemotherapy for certain patient groups, fewer side effects, and can be repeated.

New treatments like ECT are strongly welcomed by patients and clinicians as they can improve health outcomes and quality of life. In public health systems like Ireland, most treatments are paid for by the government to create equal and affordable access for patients. However, spending more money on one treatment means less money for something else. To enhance these decisions, independent information is needed about the costs, benefits, and financial implications of the allocation.

According to Dr. Murphy, lead applicant, “This study will examine the cost-effectiveness, affordability, and sustainability  of ECT from the perspective of the public health care system and we will consult with patients, clinicians, and other stakeholders to determine how ECT could be rolled out nationally and the financial implications of this will be assessed.”

The information generated from this study will be invaluable to the Department of Health in deciding if there are sufficient funds to pay for ECT for patients who need it. Therefore, supporting evidence-based decision-making on future policy and treatment decisions regarding skin cancer treatment in Ireland. This approach is in line with the National Cancer Strategy’s goal of providing optimal care and Breakthrough Cancer Research’s strategic focus to enhance cancer research outcomes by prioritising underfunded areas, expediting the translation of discoveries, fostering collaboration, strengthening capabilities, and ensuring patient focus.

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