[Usability of databases in health economics].

In the health care system, there is increasing demand for health economic analyses to achieve cost reductions or increase efficiency. Apart from classical literature or study-based analyses in health economics, routinely obtained data may complement hitherto missing information for the general medical care situation. By analysing care structures and comparing applied or newly introduced technologies, results can be achieved faster and the significance for payers increased as compared to primary studies. Routinely obtained and potentially usable databases are frequently generated from surveys or from administrative data sources. In spite of clear limitations, these data are interesting in health economics based upon reflection of reality in utilization of services. They can contribute to improved understanding of general medical care and aid in identifying economically appropriate technologies and therapeutic strategies.