Approaching value in asthma management: the need to integrate clinical and economic research with the basic science.

In the management of asthma, clinical decision making is primarily directed toward achieving the best outcome for the patient. However, the interests of the provider, insurer, and employer must also be taken into account. Integral to this process is an understanding of the need to weigh therapeutic objectives against economic concerns. This process involves consideration of the potential for clinical benefit as opposed to adverse treatment effects, as well as direct and indirect costs. Data from clinical trials provide the foundation for evaluating these factors. Randomized clinical trials, postmarketing studies, surveillance programs, and observational claims analyses all contribute valuable information to facilitate this process. Taken together, the results of such analyses form a foundation for providing effective, safe, and cost-efficient care through the practice of evidence-based medicine.