Carer quality of life in economic evaluation: challenges and solutions

Abstract: In economic evaluation, the focus is typically on how to maximise patient benefit from available resources. This neglects effects on family carers and raises questions about the degree to which current economic evaluation practice promotes equity and efficiency. Drawing on a programme of methods of research in this area, Hareth will discuss how carer quality of life can be built into economic evaluations. The seminar will focus on key challenges relating to the collection of data, the valuation of outcomes, and accounting for opportunity costs. He will conclude with a (hopefully) pragmatic set of recommendations and areas for further research in relation to the inclusion of carer quality of life in economic analysis.