Review of Health Economic Guidelines in the Form of Regulations,Principles,Policies,and Positions *

Guidelines for health economics research are being developed around the world by academic groups, government organizations, and consultants. As reviewed in this paper, there are many similarities that will enable some comparison of studies across countries. There are also important differences in the guidelines that may prevent comparability across studies. As guidelines are being developed, there needs to be a coordinated effort among the various developers to ensure that guidelines are applicable in various settings, that the science is not stifled, and that guidelines provide benefit to those ultimately impacted, the patients.