Cost-effectiveness is a method used to evaluate the efficiency of different options in achieving a specific goal, often in terms of financial expenditure. It compares the costs of various strategies or interventions against the outcomes they produce, helping decision-makers choose the most efficient option. This approach is commonly used in fields like healthcare, where it assesses treatments or programs based on their costs relative to health benefits. In a cost-effectiveness analysis, the results are typically expressed as a ratio, such as cost per quality-adjusted life year (QALY) gained. This allows for a clear comparison between different interventions, guiding resource allocation to maximize benefits while minimizing costs.