How to Speed Up the Process of Introducing High-Value Innovative Technologies to the Health System: The Catalan Health System Innovation Access Program (PASS)

OBJECTIVES: The BioRegion of Catalonia has > 1,400 companies that develop innovations that require an ecosystem connected to meet health needs. AQuAS, a HTA agency, and Biocat, a public-private foundation of the health sector, have developed a program to accelerate the implementation of high-value technologies into the Catalan Health System (CHS).

METHODS: The CHS innovation Access Program (PASS) is one of the outputs of the Action Plan for improving the access of innovations driven by population health needs into the healthcare services. It is based on 1) deliberative process of a sub-commission, 2) targeted literature review and 3) engagement sessions with key stakeholders.

RESULTS: After analysing the outputs, a digital platform was developed, as one of the key elements of the PASS. It enables a) identification and matchmaking between the health technology developers (HTD) and health centers; b) a two-step assessment questionnaire for HTD; c) access to a personalized support unit (PSU). Adapted methods and tools were developed: a) a matching algorithm, b) a first step self-assessment form with key questions for technology, safety, effectiveness, efficiency and other relevant domains and a second step with an assessment of the dossier. The PSU was designed for those innovations selected based on priorities defined by the CHS through a health need assessment process. Once a technology is in the platform and all the information collected, the period of assessment lasts 3 weeks. The output is a report with recommendations for HTD, providers and the payer.

CONCLUSIONS: PASS can pave the way for exploring new assessment approaches and collaborations among HTA bodies and different stakeholders in the health ecosystem to introduce high-value innovations more efficiently.