Health Economic Evaluation of Different Decision Aids for the Individualised Treatment of Patients with Breast Cancer

Abstract

New molecular and genetic tests are becoming more and more important in research and clinical practice. Using these tests to offer individualised therapy to patients with breast cancer is particularly important in the context of health economics. The targeted use of therapies increases their effectiveness and reduces follow-up costs by preventing recurrence and metastatic disease. Avoiding over-treatment additionally reduces costs. Genetic tests are initially associated with higher costs but in the longer term they can reduce costs, as shown by health economic models and cost-effectiveness analyses. © Georg Thieme Verlag KG · Stuttgart · New York.