What does Cost Effectiveness Analysis (CEA) primarily measure?

Cost Effectiveness Analysis (CEA) is a method that assesses the relative costs and outcomes (effects) of different courses of action in healthcare. Its primary focus is on measuring the effectiveness of interventions in terms of health outcomes, while considering the costs associated with those interventions. Therefore, CEA specifically evaluates the additional cost of achieving a specific health outcome, such as life years gained or improvements in quality of life.

By analyzing the cost per unit of health outcome, CEA allows healthcare managers and policymakers to determine which interventions provide the best value for their investment in health resources. This is not merely about identifying the effectiveness of an intervention without regard for costs; rather, it integrates both aspects to inform decisions on resource allocation in such a way that maximizes health benefits per dollar spent.

Other options do not accurately capture the essence of CEA. The financial return of healthcare investments deals more with profitability and revenue generation, focusing on the monetary gains rather than health outcomes. Measuring direct costs associated with patient care emphasizes only the cost aspect without assessing the outcomes achieved, which is central to CEA. Lastly, potential savings from interventions overlook the critical relationship between costs and health outcomes that CEA aims to analyze. Thus, option B illustrates the core component of CEA