The economic evaluation of health technologies in Cuba: results achieved and challenges for the country

Abstract

The aim of the paper is to describe the importance and need for the implementation of the economic evaluation of health technologies for increasing efficiency in the field of health in Cuba, as well as exposing the implementation of this activity in the National Health System (NHS) and projections of work being developed in the country. We performed a literature review to search for information on this subject at national and international level to gauge the incorporation of this discipline as an element to increase efficiency in the Cuban health system. The economic evaluation applied to the health field in Cuba is considered an aspect that contributes to the efficient use of resources. Although the costs of new technology are large, their value in terms of efficiency can identify the most effective and less costly ways to support the process of decision-making. In conclusion, the economic evaluation of health technologies has become a necessity for the NHS, since its incorporation can guide decision-making to increase the efficiency of health interventions.