SUMMARY
Kevin M. Wymer, M.D., researches health services with an emphasis on cost-comparative analyses, quality of life outcomes reported by people and financial toxicity among individuals undergoing surgical intervention for benign urologic disease. Dr. Wymer completed multiple projects evaluating the cost-effectiveness of various benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and urinary stone treatment options.
These projects have expanded to thoroughly evaluate surgical costs on both a systems and individual patient-provider level. These studies, as well as the quantification of people's priorities, include the impact of cost. Together, the implications of a more comprehensive assessment of surgical treatment options are significant. Ultimately, this combined data can help promote informed decisions for both people and healthcare providers. This information will help direct policy and guidelines in the future.
Focus areas
- Cost-comparative analyses. Dr. Wymer has completed numerous cost-effectiveness analyses on topics ranging from urologic oncology, urogynecology, obstetrics and endourology. These analyses focus on obtaining a better understanding of people's outcomes and system-level impacts of treatment decisions.
- Quality of life outcomes and financial toxicity. In addition to the quality-of-life metrics included in cost-comparative analysis, Dr. Wymer improves the data available for understanding people's quality of life and the impact of cost. He collects data reported by individuals through mixed methods. Dr. Wymer improves how to quantify priorities for people undergoing surgical management for benign urologic conditions.
- Improve treatments and outcomes related to BPH and nephrolithiasis. Medical technology is a critical component of endourology. Dr. Wymer evaluates minimally invasive surgical techniques, technologies, and new BPH and urinary stone treatment options in both the pre-clinical and clinical phases.
Significance to patient care
BPH and nephrolithiasis are two of the most common conditions managed by urologists. For people who need surgery, many options are available. These choices vary in risk-to-benefit profiles, techniques, resources and cost requirements. Although these options are beneficial for individuals and healthcare professionals, this environment of rapid technological advancements poses challenges.
Correctly quantifying people's preferences and cost implications on a system and individual level are critical. Preferences and cost implications help with decision-making and decision aids. They also offer standardized data for benefit-risk assessments for guidelines, comparative modeling and regulatory panels.
Professional highlights
- Data Research Program, Management Patterns for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia: Analysis of Patient and Provider Factors that Drive Treatment Selection in the United States, American Urological Association, 2024.
- Kern Health Care Delivery Scholar, Robert D. and Patricia E. Kern Center for the Science of Healthcare Delivery, Mayo Clinic, 2021-2023.