HTA and economics in the United States: a systematic review of ICER reports to evaluate trends, identify factors associated with recommendations, and understand implications.

The Institute for Clinical and Economic Review (ICER) is a prominent health technology assessment (HTA) entity in the United States that considers costs and applies economic analyses to derive price-based recommendations. ICER continues to adjust its value framework, yet discussion persists regarding whether ICER methodologies align with established research standards. This work evaluates ICER assessments relative to those standards, providing a benchmark with the release of ICER's most recent value framework update.

Assessment of COPD-related outcomes in patients initiating a once daily or twice daily ICS/LABA.

Background: Use of inhaled corticosteroids and long acting beta agonist (ICS/LABA) combination therapy has been shown to decrease the frequency of exacerbations in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). In this population, adherence to treatment is associated with better disease control and lower risk of COPD-related exacerbations in the future. Using a treatment with a more convenient regimen or easier-to-use device could improve patient adherence, improve disease control, decrease the frequency of exacerbations and minimize the COPD-related economic burden.

Assessment of Adherence and Asthma Medication Ratio for a Once-Daily and Twice-Daily Inhaled Corticosteroid/Long-Acting β-Agonist for Asthma.

Background: Although efficacy and safety of fluticasone furoate/vilanterol (FF/VI) and budesonide/formoterol (BUD/F) have been demonstrated in clinical studies, real-world comparisons of utilization have not been performed.

Objective: To compare similar patients with asthma initiating FF/VI or BUD/F on measures of adherence, persistence, and the asthma medication ratio (AMR).

Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study of commercial and Medicare Advantage with Part D enrollees initiating FF/VI or BUD/F for asthma.