Presentation (CTI)

OBJECTIVES: Detailed, publicly available information on the process and methods for health technology assessment (HTA) of medical technologies (MTs) can be difficult to find. Our objective was to understand the process and methods used for HTAs of MT by the Scottish Health Technologies Group (SHTG).
METHODS: A review of publicly available information from the SHTG website was performed and supplemented with an online survey that was sent to and completed by SHTG. The survey requested information on the MT selection process, types of MT evaluated, and types of evidence considered within the HTA process. Quantitative and qualitative data were obtained and collated in Excel.
RESULTS: The initial searches provided brief information about the process and methods used to review MTs. The online survey results revealed that the SHTG evaluates invasive and non-invasive devices, diagnostics, or digital technologies, such as apps or software. An internal process is used to select topics. The SHTG uses a general HTA process that covers all types of MTs (i.e., the same process is used for assessing devices, diagnostics, or digital technologies). It considers clinical and economic data as well as opinions from patients and healthcare professionals. The assessment by SHTG happens after regulatory approval, and it usually takes between 6 to 9 months to complete an HTA for MT.
CONCLUSIONS: A major challenge for MT companies is establishing whether a technology requires or is eligible for HTA in different markets. For MT evaluation in Scotland, information was publicly available, but direct contact with the SHTG revealed additional details. MT companies should be prepared to contact HTA agencies directly to obtain necessary information that informs evidence generation, market access strategies, and HTA submission plans.