RESUMO
Nobody studies economic evaluation of acupuncture and moxibustion in Japan. To establish a method of economic evaluation of acupuncture and moxibustion, we introduced case study of economic evaluation of acupuncture and moxibustion at work. In addition, we examined a course of study that annex economic evaluation to a study of acupuncture and moxibustion. This manuscript introduces two case studies of economic evaluation and essential points of economic evaluation.
RESUMO
Objective : To research reports of economic analysis of acupuncture therapy.<BR>Method : Searches were performed in Medline for reports of cost description, economic, randomized controlled trial, cost effectiveness, or cost benefit. Studies were included if they reported original data from any form of standard economic analysis.<BR>Results : A total of 15 papers was found. These studies were investigated as follows : angina pectoris, carpal tunnel syndrome, stroke, knee osteoarthrosis, low back pain, musculoskeletal disease, migraine, acupuncture analgesia. On the other hand, only one paper was found in Japan.<BR>Conclusion : Almost studies were noncntrolled trial, non-rigorous and retrospective studies. In future there is a need for high quality and rigorous studies of the cost and benefits of acupuncture.