In which scenario would the use of ICER be most beneficial?

The use of the Incremental Cost-Effectiveness Ratio (ICER) is particularly beneficial when evaluating the outcomes of innovative genetic therapies. ICER provides a quantitative measure to compare the cost-effectiveness of new treatments against standard therapies or existing medical interventions. This is crucial in the context of genetic therapies, which are often associated with high costs but may offer significant health benefits.

By using ICER, healthcare professionals can assess whether the additional health benefits of a genetic therapy justify its higher costs compared to traditional treatment options. It allows stakeholders, such as policymakers and healthcare providers, to make informed decisions based on economic evaluations, ensuring that new therapies deliver value for money and improve patient outcomes effectively.

In contrast, while traditional treatment options and basic genetic research may involve considerations of cost and effectiveness, they do not typically necessitate the same level of economic evaluation as innovative therapies, which challenge existing paradigms of care. Establishing patient support systems is more about the social aspect of healthcare and does not primarily involve cost-effectiveness analysis in the way that ICER does for therapies.