Presentation (CTI)

OBJECTIVES: A list of criteria was developed as part of the Horizon Europe SUSTAIN-HTA Coordinating Support Action to support a systematic process for prioritising new methods and tools for further development and implementation for health technology assessment (HTA). The primary objective of the criteria was to help future SUSTAIN-HTA activities focus on the identification and development of new methods and tools most needed by HTA bodies in Europe. The criteria can also support HTA bodies prioritise methods when updating their methods guidance.
METHODS: A working group was formed within SUSTAIN-HTA to develop the prioritisation criteria following an iterative approach. A preliminary list was drafted by the working group and input was sought from three different groups in succession, with feedback from each group addressed prior to sharing with the next. Input was gathered from the SUSTAIN-HTA consortium, and other HTA bodies outside of the consortium from Europe and North America. The criteria were finalised with the wider SUSTAIN-HTA consortium.
RESULTS: A sixteen-point list of criteria was developed to prioritise methods for development and implementation outlining considerations for HTA bodies based on their pre-defined needs. Twenty-four HTA bodies provided input into the development of the criteria. The criteria focus on the following broad aspects: current or future methods needs, value and/or impact, scientific rigour, transparency, feasibility and readiness for implementation, innovation, applicability across different types of technologies, internal and external alignment, addressing external pressures and stakeholder needs.
CONCLUSIONS: HTA methods and tools are continuously evolving, however, their implementation and uptake by individual HTA bodies need to align with their needs and priorities. The prioritisation list represents a tool to systematically prioritise methods for further development and implementation.