Assessment and Predictive Analysis of Health Professions Students' Proficiency in Health Economics and Pharmacoeconomics in Southwest China: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract Background: This study assesses and predicts the proficiency of health professions students in health economics and pharmacoeconomics in Southwest China, focusing on their knowledge, attitudes, and educational needs. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from July to October 2023, involving medical and pharmaceutical programs across universities in Sichuan, Chongqing, Guizhou, and Yunnan. Data on students' knowledge, attitudes, and proficiency were captured using a structured questionnaire. Advanced statistical methods, including descriptive analysis, ANOVA, regression analysis, PCA, and Spearman correlation heatmaps, were employed for data analysis using IBM SPSS and Python. The sample consisted of 781 students, with the survey facilitated via the Questionnaire Star platform. Results: The survey revealed moderate comprehension of health economics and pharmacoeconomics among 781 health-related students, with an average knowledge score of 2.9. The majority were pharmacy students (45.84%) and aged 21-24 years (65.81%) with a significant female majority (64.92%). Academic year significantly influenced understanding, while gender differences were minimal. Spearman correlation indicated a strong linkage (0.78) between Supply and Demand and Cost Effectiveness, with minimal correlations between knowledge and attitudes towards the educational importance of health economics. Multiple regression highlighted the impact of gender and academic progression on Supply and Demand comprehension and the influence of knowledge levels on educational attitudes. PCA indicated the complex structure of knowledge and attitudes. Conclusions: The study highlights moderate knowledge levels in health economics among health professions students in Southwest China, suggesting the need for educational enhancements that consider gender and academic stages. These insights are essential for developing comprehensive educational frameworks to prepare future healthcare professionals for economic decision-making in healthcare.