OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to review the current state of health economic modelling in cystic fibrosis (CF), focusing on data availability and modelling approaches. The objective was to identify gaps and propose recommendations for future research in this area.

METHODS: To accomplish this objective, a systematic search was carried out on PubMed, Embase, and Google Scholar, scrutinizing pertinent studies that examined health economic modeling in CF. The systematic review employed various search terms such as "cystic fibrosis," "data availability," "health economic modeling," and "modeling approaches." Additionally, the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were adhered to as a reporting standard during the process.

RESULTS: 153 studies were obtained from the database, with the final review focusing on 22 studies exploring CF-specific health states. These aspects included pulmonary exacerbations, comorbidities such as diabetes and liver disease, and health state utilities (HSU). The methods and limitations of the identified studies were analyzed to determine the current landscape of CF health economic modelling. All included studies predominantly focused on a narrow range of CF health states while lacking comprehensive data on comorbidities and long-term complications. The inconsistent measurement of HSU and lack of consensus on the ideal instrument hindered comparability. The review exposed data gaps and the need for improved modelling in CF health economics.

CONCLUSIONS: In conclusion, this study emphasizes the urgent need for improved access to data and more comprehensive modelling methods in CF health economic modelling. Future research should aim to incorporate CF-specific health states, comorbidities, and long-term complications in epidemiological models Exploring CF-specific instruments for measuring HSU and implementing mapping techniques to improve the availability of HSU can be considered. Addressing these research gaps will facilitate more accurate and informative cost-effectiveness evaluations of interventions for CF patients, thereby supporting healthcare decision-making processes.