PMU57 Need Assessment of Knowledge on Health Economics and Outcomes Research in Central Asia Countries

The present study examined level of health economics and outcomes research (HEOR) knowledge in Central Asia countries, assessing what expert in this field think and know about HEOR and how they used it in their work. Based on a review of available literature and professional opinion the web-based survey for needs assessment was developed to measure level of knowledge on HEOR and identify unmet needs on knowledge and gaps. Data analysis was conducted in Microsoft Excel using descriptive statistics to summarize the survey responders' demographic data, level of knowledge and preferred method for delivery of this knowledge. Survey data collected from 74 responders. The huge gap between science and action was identified in field interpretation of health economic evaluation and patient-reported outcomes, which was amounted 2.48 ± 1.52 and 2.56 ± 1.58 accordingly. The least gap on knowledge was amounted for systematic review and meta-analysis applications (mean = 0.98 ± 0.66). Also, self-perceived unmet needs on HEOR knowledge were smallest in field of understanding of types of health care costs. The 65 % of responders preferred to receive knowledge related to HEOR topics through academic continuing education and distance learning programs. Correlation analyses was performed to identify possible associations between HEOR topics self-assessed level and responders demographic data. The analysis of gaps on HEOR knowledge allowed current unmet needs on knowledge in perceptions among responders. This study provided clarification of the needs and topics of the educational programs for sustainable development of HEOR in Central Asia countries. The results of our study help, in a larger sense, to navigate society towards achieving the HEOR knowledge.