A specialized themed research section has been published in Value in Health, the official journal of ISPOR. This section provides deep insights into the intricate health economics surrounding Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD). As the population ages and new treatments emerge, it offers a guide for future research and policy-making. Guest editors Thomas Rapp and Pei-Jung Lin have curated this collection to address challenges in economic evaluation methodologies and equitable access to care innovations.

This themed section consists of eight research papers divided into three categories: refining frameworks for evaluating ADRD interventions, broadening perspectives on the economic impact of ADRD, and addressing health equity in ADRD care advancements. The articles emphasize the need for more accurate estimations of potential economic benefits associated with emerging healthcare innovations for ADRD.

Redefining Economic Evaluation Frameworks for ADRD Interventions

The first grouping of research focuses on enhancing methods to assess cost-effectiveness models and frameworks specific to early-stage Alzheimer's treatments. These studies aim to improve existing models by incorporating broader economic outcomes and ensuring their applicability across different contexts.

Two key papers explore innovative approaches. "IPECAD Modeling Workshop 2023 Cross-Comparison Challenge" evaluates cost-effectiveness models through collaborative efforts, while "New IPECAD Open-Source Model Framework" introduces an adaptable model for assessing early Alzheimer’s disease treatment. Both contributions highlight the necessity for standardized methodologies that consider the multifaceted nature of ADRD, moving beyond conventional limitations to capture the full spectrum of costs and impacts.

Broadening Perspectives on Economic Impact and Ensuring Equity

Research in the second and third groupings extends the scope of analysis to include broader economic effects and issues of health equity. These studies delve into unpaid caregiver burdens, patient productivity losses, and regional social costs, offering comprehensive insights into the economic implications of ADRD.

Several notable works stand out in this category. "Indirect Costs of Alzheimer’s Disease" quantifies the financial strain on caregivers and patients, while another paper examines the effectiveness of digitally supported care management programs. Additionally, "Changes in Out-of-Pocket Drug Expenditures" simulates the financial impact of legislative changes on dementia patients under Medicare. By addressing disparities in chronic pain and dementia relationships among older populations, these studies underscore the importance of equitable access to care innovations, advocating for policies that sustainably support individuals affected by ADRD and their families.