This study found the use of economic evidence in decision-making at both MMCs was limited. To improve the usefulness of economic evaluations in MMCs, members of MMCs will need more training in accessing, understanding and appraising economic evidence; researchers need to improve the credibility and transferability of economic studies, and present the results in clear and understandable ways. However, due to the restricted focus of local, short-term drug budgets, evidence-based decision-making remains a challenge for local MMCs.