Can an Intervention Be Cost-effective Following a Negative Clinical Trial?

Cost-effectiveness analysis (CEA) is a form of economic evaluation that examines the tradeoff of fiscal expenditures for an estimated gain in health.(1) CEAs in conjunction with clinical trials are performed in anticipation of policy decisions regarding widespread adoption of a clinically effective service. But what does it mean when the results of a CEA are at odds with the reported efficacy of the intervention?

Automated summary

Cost-effectiveness analysis evaluates the relationship between fiscal expenditures and health gains. (1) It is often used alongside clinical trials to inform policy decisions on adopting effective services. However, when the results of a cost-effectiveness analysis contradict the reported efficacy of an intervention, it raises questions.