OBJECTIVES: As different countries face similar health technology assessment (HTA) challenges (e.g., low policy education and resource shortages), there is a need for knowledge and information sharing. HTA collaboration is critical in low-and-middle income countries (LMICs) seeking to advance HTA efforts and increase access to innovative medicines. This research aims to analyze the existing international HTA networks in terms of examples of cooperation involving ex-Europe LMICs.

METHODS: The biggest international HTA networks, the International Network of Agencies for Health Technology Assessment (INAHTA) and Health Technology Assessment International (HTAi), were selected for the research. A literature search was conducted using the PubMed database and grey literature sources to retrieve and review documents discussing INAHTA and HTAi activities involving ex-Europe LMICs.

RESULTS: Both INAHTA and HTAi include LMICs members and have engaged in activities to advance HTA efforts in ex-Europe LMICs. Among both organizations, the main activities involve the development of HTA information/experience sharing tools, such as newsletter, database, or webinars. Other activities involve the establishment of partnerships with other global/regional organizations to support LMICs from outside the network. Further activities involve HTA promotion/education, which includes organizing annual congresses, working groups/committees and trainings. This extends to activities to advance HTA policy education through regional health conferences. Finally, both organizations conduct regular surveys among their members to ensure that knowledge gaps and challenges are well understood.

CONCLUSIONS: The international exchange of HTA expertise is growing and HTA networks such as INAHTA and HTAi are increasingly involved in assisting HTA efforts in LMIC. Joint European efforts can further support the work of these organizations by sharing experiences and knowledge. Further efforts are needed to quantify the impact of these networks in developing equitable, sustainable, and high-quality healthcare systems in LMICs.