Presentation (CTI)

OBJECTIVES: To identify key barriers to patient access for innovative medical devices and establish an expert-vetted policy framework integrating HTA and value-based reimbursement considerations.
METHODS: A multi-stage, mixed-methods consensus study was conducted during the ISPOR UAE 2026 Conference using a modified Nominal Group Technique. The expert panel included policymakers, payers, providers, industry representatives, and HTA experts. Discussions were structured around six domains: HTA, DRGs, private health insurance, reimbursement, digitization, and stakeholder collaboration. Quantitative polling and qualitative insights were synthesized through thematic analysis. Consensus was predefined as ≥80% agreement.
RESULTS: Private insurance stratification (≥80% agreement): Although baseline coverage has expanded across the region, access to innovative medical devices remains dependent on insurance benefit design. Stakeholder fragmentation (≥80% agreement): Suboptimal communication is a barrier to access, thus the need for stronger collaboration and locally relevant clinical and economic evidence informing coverage decisions. Medical billing obstacles (≥80% agreement): DRG systems, built on retrospective data, may create financial disincentives for hospitals, limiting the use of innovative technologies, despite value. Policy framework (≥80% agreement): Participants supported an integrated framework that includes device-specific HTA approaches, longitudinal outcome monitoring, flexible reimbursement pathways, value-based DRG considerations, and exploration of managed entry agreements.
CONCLUSIONS: Improving access to innovative medical devices in MENA requires localized HTA capacity, value-based reimbursement models, adaptive DRG frameworks, and stronger stakeholder collaboration. The proposed practical framework could support evidence-based adoption and sustainable patient access across the region.