What is a matched pairs analysis?
In the survey, matched pairs analysis is used to compare summary data (median MPR) for two different categories of medicines (e.g. originator brands vs. lowest priced generics, or public sector vs. private sector). For median price ratios to be calculated for patient prices, medicines need to be found in at least 4 outlets. As a result of variations in the availability of individual medicines, summary data for originator brands will likely not contain the same group or basket of medicines as summary data for lowest-priced generics. Similarly baskets of medicines found in the public sector will also vary to those found in the private sector. Since these baskets contain different medicines with different prices, they are not comparable. In the matched pairs analysis, only those medicines found in both baskets are included in the calculation of summary data, thereby generating comparable results.
