Addressing the need for economic modelling when designing and reporting a diagnostic testing accuracy study.

Abstract

Model-based economic evaluations rely on results of diagnostic test accuracy (DTA) studies to assess the value-for-money of a new diagnostic or prognostic test. The 30-item Standards for Reporting of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies (STARD) 2015 guidelines are the gold-standard guidelines for DTA studies. In this Perspective paper, we conducted a rapid review of publicly available economic evaluations of a new diagnostic test between 2012 and 2025 to formulate eight elements that we believe could be added to STARD 2015 to help enhance the credibility of DTA-based economic evaluations. Examples from the rapid review and practical recommendations were provided.