An economic analysis of implementing the SIGN third molar guideline: implications for the design and analysis of implementation studies

Tilley, C., McIntosh, E. , Bahrami, M., Clarkson, J., Deery, C. and Pitts, N. (2005) An economic analysis of implementing the SIGN third molar guideline: implications for the design and analysis of implementation studies. Journal of Health Services Research and Policy, 10(3), pp. 143-149. (doi: 10.1258/1355819054339031)

Full text not currently available from Enlighten.

Publisher's URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1258/1355819054339031

Abstract

<p><b>Objectives:</b> To compare the cost-effectiveness of four third molar guideline implementation strategies.</p> <p><b>Methods:</b> Fifty-one dental practices in Scotland were randomized to one of four implementation strategies. The effectiveness of the strategies was measured by general dental practitioners’compliance with the guideline.</p> <p><b>Results:</b> The effectiveness of the guideline depended crucially upon the type of patient treated. In particular, for a minority of patients (14%) with no clinical signals of their ‘type’, the implementation strategies generate potentially large gains in evidence-based practice. However, the cost per patient of achieving these gains is large given that the costs are incurred for all patients, but benefits accrue only to a minority.</p> <p><b>Discussion:</b> The results show that the type of patient presenting for treatment can in£uence the e¡ectiveness, cost-effectiveness and therefore policy conclusions. Consequently, the design and analysis of studies need to be sufficiently sensitive to detect subtle interaction effects. This may explain the dearth of guideline implementation trials with significant findings. The results also suggest that a more cost-effective implementation method in primary care dentistry may be to subsidize treatment conditional upon patient type.</p>

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:McIntosh, Professor Emma
Authors: Tilley, C., McIntosh, E., Bahrami, M., Clarkson, J., Deery, C., and Pitts, N.
College/School:College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Health & Wellbeing > Health Economics and Health Technology Assessment
Journal Name:Journal of Health Services Research and Policy
Publisher:Royal Society of Medicine
ISSN:1355-8196

University Staff: Request a correction | Enlighten Editors: Update this record