A systematic quantitative method for comparing the costs of several alternative means to achieve the same benefits of a given objective and the benefits in the context of avoided future damages and losses. Cost-effectiveness is generally determined by performing a cost-benefit analysis.

A systematic quantitative method for comparing the costs of alternative means of achieving the same stream of benefits or a given objective. [D03485]

The cost-effectiveness of a treatment is a determination of how well the treatment works relative to the cost associated with it. If a drug only reduces some symptoms of a condition, has many side-eff [..]

The cost of an emission control measure assessed in terms of dollars-per-pound, or dollars-per-ton, of air emissions reduced.

  An indicator of how worthwhile an investment is.

Evaluates the outcomes and costs of interventions intended to improve health. Often framed as the resources required to achieve a set quantity of a specific health outcome. back to top

Usually considered as a ratio, the cost-effectiveness of a drug or procedure, for example, relates the cost of that drug or procedure to the health benefits resulting from it. In health terms, it is often expressed as the cost per year per life-year saved or as the cost per quality-adjusted life-year saved.