ISSUE: Early health economic models can generate valuable insights to inform the development of health technologies. Currently, there is an increasing interest in a health technology assessment (HTA) lifecycle approach, including the possible reuse or extension of early models in later evaluation stages. However, while early models are typically developed using limited evidence, methods for developing full health economic models are becoming increasingly sophisticated. This raises questions regarding the value of using, for example, simulation modeling and value of information methods already for developing early models.

OVERVIEW: Dr Degeling will introduce the session through a 5-minute presentation providing an overview of the opportunities for utilizing early health economic models and their role in a lifecycle approach. Dr Grutters will discuss (10 minutes) the need for flexible and nimble methods for health economic modeling in the early stages of development. She will discuss how simple early models can be informative under conditions of limited resources and a high degree of uncertainty. Professor Koffijberg will discuss (10 minutes) whether an additional upfront investment in using advanced simulation methods to develop an early model may be more efficient on the long term. Dr Kunst will discuss (10 minutes) opportunities for value of information analyses during early stages to inform evidence generation and trial optimization. After each presentation, the audience will be asked to vote and share their opinion regarding the presented challenges and opportunities (3x2 min). The session will end with a further 15-20-minute discussion for the audience to contribute with questions and insights. Those who (aim to) develop or appraise early health economic models, and those experienced with methods to develop full health economic models, will particularly benefit from the discussion. Finally, this panel will also benefit policy makers interested in enhancing the implementation and efficiency of lifecycle approaches to technology evaluation.