Led by course director Silvia Evers, and co-director Milena Pavlova – both from a globally recognized institution known for its strong international outlook and interdisciplinary approach – the seminar offered a foundation in the principles of economic evaluation, with practical application to real-world healthcare decisions. Also representing Maastricht was Dr. Ghislaine van Mastrigt, assistant professor of health technology assessment and epidemiology, whose contributions enriched the academic and methodological depth of the course.
As Prof. Pavlova explained, the seminar was designed for healthcare professionals seeking to understand the basics of economic evaluation and its role in health technology assessment and decision-making. Fellows were introduced to both trial-based and model-based methodologies, exploring topics like cost-effectiveness, cost-utility analysis, outcome measures, and uncertainty. But what made the course stand out was its broader perspective: integrating societal needs, equity, ethics, and healthcare regulations to help clinicians make informed, reflective choices in their daily practice.
“Improving the training of healthcare professionals means going beyond just delivering information,” Prof. Pavlova noted. “It is about building skills, critical thinking, adaptability, and real-world application. OMI offers the perfect conditions for such training.”
In line with OMI’s approach, the week combined didactic lectures with practical assignments, interactive workshops, and sessions of reflection and study. Divided into six small groups, each supported by one or more faculty members, fellows were given the space to dive into topics, share experiences, and connect with peers from across continents. The exchange of medical, cultural, and economic perspectives embodied the essence of international collaboration.
Faculty beyond Maastricht included experts from across Europe: From Germany, Dr. Lorena Dini; From Greece, Dr. Elena Petelos; From Serbia, Dr. Bosiljka Djikanovic; And from the United Kingdom, Dr. Rositsa Koleva-Kolarova and Prof. Céu Mateus.
Dr. Elena Petelos, an advocate for universal health coverage and global health equity, emphasized how economic evaluation empowers clinicians amidst growing technological transformation and healthcare system pressures: “Clinicians are called to transform their practice, to better comprehend the impact of their choices, and to optimize healthcare delivery,” she shared. “Economic evaluation is an invaluable tool, irrespective of specialty or setting.”
Dr. Petelos also underlined the strategic importance of OMI’s work: “OMI’s capacity-building and outreach strengthen the knowledge and expand the skills of clinicians across borders. Every fellow is an emerging leader. Supporting this effort is a privilege – together we build a network of excellence that will transform care delivery across the globe.”
Paulos Efrem Estifanos
OMI fellow from Ethiopia
Ayshe Yaylali
OMI fellow from Cyprus
Artur Leminski
OMI fellow from Poland
Nina van Lier
OMI fellow from Canada
We extend our deepest thanks to all faculty members – especially our partners at Maastricht University – for their commitment to advancing healthcare economics through education. We are already looking forward to next year’s seminar!
