View from the College: Health economics

This week the College published two papers from its Enhanced Scheme Evaluation Project (ESEP). This project is notable for the fact that it combines rigorous evaluations of the clinical effectiveness of community schemes, with an in-depth health economics analysis of their cost-effectiveness. These first two papers both show the potential benefits of such community eye health schemes.

The first paper involved a detailed review of the published evidence on the efficacy of community schemes, the second reports on the analysis of the impact the introduction of a minor eye conditions scheme (Mecs) in south-east London.

This second ‘on the ground’ study showed Mecs was clinically effective and resulted in high levels of patient satisfaction. Comparisons with a neighbouring area not operating a community scheme revealed a more than 25% drop in first attendance referrals from GPs to hospitals in the area with the Mecs.