Why R We Bothering? the Why and How of Using R for Integrated Analysis and Modelling
Author(s)
Discussion Leaders: Lea Trela-Larsen, PhD, National Centre for Pharmacoeconomics, Dublin, D, Ireland Raquel Aguiar-Ibáñez, MSc, Center for Observational and Real World Evidence, Economic and Data Sciences team, Merck Sharp & Dohme Ltd, Haarlem, NH, Netherlands;Howard Thom, BA, MSc, PhD, University of Bristol, Bristol, GLS, UK; Rose Hart, PhD, Health Economics Analysis Team, BresMed Health Solutions Ltd., Sheffield, UK
PURPOSE: To demonstrate the benefits of investing in R as an integrated statistical and economic modelling solution for the health economics and outcomes research community and health technology assessment (HTA). Our workshop will present the advantages (why), and the practicalities of use (how), such as graphical user interfaces and upskilling your team.
DESCRIPTION: The programming language R is well established within health economics. Its flexibility, efficiency and transparency make it ideal for performing the complex data analyses that are required to inform models. However, there is often a disconnection between the software used for statistical analyses and that used for modelling; results are often copied into Microsoft Excel for model building. This is a suitable method if done infrequently to reduce inefficiency or human error; if the modeller has a clear understanding of the source and analysis of the copied data; and if it is presented to key stakeholders and decision-makers in a transparent and justifiable way. The demands of our industry, however, with frequent strategy updates and short turnaround times, do not always make this possible. We therefore invite delegates to consider R as a potential start-to-finish analysis and modelling solution. This workshop will offer both technical and non-technical participants a rounded demonstration of R from the perspective of HTA, industry, academia, and consultancy. Lea Trela-Larsen will explain the benefits of using R for transparency within HTA. Raquel Aguiar-Ibáñez will highlight the efficiency of updates, country adaptations, and the potential for continuity across product development from an industry perspective. Following these arguments for ‘why’ to use an integrated framework in R, Howard Thom will present the ‘how’ with a practical demonstration of the speed, transparency, and flexibility advantages. Finally, Rose Hart will discuss learning pathways for modelling, version control, and graphical user interfaces in R for technical and non-technical users.
DESCRIPTION: The programming language R is well established within health economics. Its flexibility, efficiency and transparency make it ideal for performing the complex data analyses that are required to inform models. However, there is often a disconnection between the software used for statistical analyses and that used for modelling; results are often copied into Microsoft Excel for model building. This is a suitable method if done infrequently to reduce inefficiency or human error; if the modeller has a clear understanding of the source and analysis of the copied data; and if it is presented to key stakeholders and decision-makers in a transparent and justifiable way. The demands of our industry, however, with frequent strategy updates and short turnaround times, do not always make this possible. We therefore invite delegates to consider R as a potential start-to-finish analysis and modelling solution. This workshop will offer both technical and non-technical participants a rounded demonstration of R from the perspective of HTA, industry, academia, and consultancy. Lea Trela-Larsen will explain the benefits of using R for transparency within HTA. Raquel Aguiar-Ibáñez will highlight the efficiency of updates, country adaptations, and the potential for continuity across product development from an industry perspective. Following these arguments for ‘why’ to use an integrated framework in R, Howard Thom will present the ‘how’ with a practical demonstration of the speed, transparency, and flexibility advantages. Finally, Rose Hart will discuss learning pathways for modelling, version control, and graphical user interfaces in R for technical and non-technical users.
Conference/Value in Health Info
2020-11, ISPOR Europe 2020, Milan, Italy
Code
12270
Topic
Methodological & Statistical Research