Health technology assessment (HTA)

What is a health technology assessment (HTA)?

A HTA is a systematicevaluation of the medical, social, economic and ethical implications of a newmedical intervention or technology (i.e., a pharmaceutical). It’sa igorous process used to determine the value of a healthcare innovation.

What is the purpose of a HTA?

The primary goal of a HTA is to inform decision-making. By providing a comprehensive assessment of a technology, a HTA helps healthcare providers, policymakers and payers make informed choices about adopting or reimbursing new treatments. HTAs play a crucial role in ensuring that healthcare resources are allocated efficiently and that patients have access to safe and effective treatments.

How does it work?

A HTA involves a multi-step, multidisciplinary process involving (but not limited to) the analysis of the effectiveness, safety, cost and organizational implications of a new health technology. HTA bodies compare new technologies to existing options to determine their value and potential benefits.