Parallel Discrete Choice Experiments in Caregivers of Japanese & UK Cancer Survivors with Benefit Transfer Analysis

2015 Fiscal Year Annual Research Report

• Project/Area Number: 15H06082
• Research Institution: Saitama University
• Principal Investigator: BOLT Timothy 埼玉大学, 人文社会科学研究科(系), 准教授 (40757564)
• Project Period (FY): 2015-08-28 – 2017-03-31
• Keywords: Health Economics / Choice Experiment / Cancer Survivor Services / Informal Carers

Outline of Annual Research Achievements

For the 2015 fiscal year of this grant, the project has focused on the Discrete Choice Experiment (DCE) content and questionnaire development. For this, summaries of the relevant literature and also the review of the services available in the study nations was done. Along with the supporting experts and interviews, key attributes for each nation have been identified. This has followed the planned literature review and initial qualitative data collection to form the basis for the planned DCE study. The national overlap is being analysed and the current focus with the clinical and expert advisors is to narrow these. The choice experiment attributes / levels are being refined for decisions on inclusion in the experimental design. This will ensure a creation of choice sets and rigorous piloting of this. The statistical model and online questionnaire format is being developed for the quick delivery of the actual finalised questionnaire.

Current Status of Research Progress

3: Progress in research has been slightly delayed.

Reason

The access to Japanese language materials and services in Japan did take a little longer than expected. The national reviews were successful, but this delayed the project a little.
The continuation of the study is expected to be fine.

Strategy for Future Research Activity

The remainder of the study is progressing and expected to continue well. The proposed research schedule is to be followed with data collected and modelling to be done within this fiscal year. This will follow the finishing of the questionnaire development and administration.
It is felt that the DCE development and preparations for undertaking the study are proceeding well. The data collection and analysis framework are clear and prepared.
A realistic re-assessment of the timeframe shows that the writing of the papers and presentation of results (dissemination) is likely to be done following this grant period, but maintain the rigour and impact of the study.