This paper studies a class of Markov models which consist of two components. Typically, one of the components is observable and the other is unobservable or 'hidden'. Conditions under which (a form of) geometric ergodicity of the unobservable component is inherited by the joint process formed of...

The cost-effectiveness of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) based on a societal perspective is reassessed based on new medical evidence found in the Women's Health Initiative (WHI). Within a model framework using an individual state transition model the cost-effectiveness of 50-60 year old women...