Analyzing the Impact of Palliative Care Interventions on Cost of Hospitalization: Practical Guidance for Choice of Dependent Variable

Investigators evaluating the impact of palliative care programs on hospital costs ought to use cost of hospitalization as the dependent variable in primary analysis unless the research question specifically justifies an alternative approach. Mean daily costs and “before-and-after” costs should be used only to address relevant research questions, and results must be interpreted carefully. Analyses should also incorporate timing of the intervention where appropriate.