The role of modelling in economic evaluation is explored by discussing, with examples, the uses of models. The expanded use of pragmatic clinical trials as an alternative to models is discussed. Some suggestions for good modelling practice are made. © 1997 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

This paper examines some of the issues that arise when seeking to tackle health inequalities in a context of limited health care resources. Increasingly, central agencies are using devolved budgets for health care providers as a central instrument of expenditure control. Equity objectives play...