OBJECTIVES: To examine how early health economic models and technology assessments can be used to inform and influence the development of novel health technologies.

METHODS: We performed a descriptive analysis of health technology assessments (HTA) of early-stage technologies from Washington state research institutions. We categorized these analyses by the type of technology assessed, the analyses performed, the economic modeling methods used, and the recommendations made to technology developers.

RESULTS: In total, the assessments of ten technologies were evaluated, including 40% diagnostics, 30% hypothetical drugs, 20% predictive algorithms, and 10% medical devices. Most of the assessments (n=9) conducted cost-effectiveness analyses (CEAs), while only one assessed return on investment (ROI). Similarly, a systematic review and budget impact models were only performed in one technology evaluation. A variety of modeling approaches were employed, such as Markov state transition models (n=3), decision trees (n=3), hybrid Markov-decision trees (n=2), microsimulation (n=1), and discrete event simulation (n=1). Each assessment included sensitivity analyses and scenario analyses to identify influential parameters. There were two assessments that evaluated whether the potential technology was cost-effective in various settings and indications. A threshold analysis was also used in 60% of the assessments to determine value-based prices for potential technologies. In five of the assessments, the technology was determined to be potentially cost-effective. In other assessments, the technology was considered cost-effective only for certain indications or for certain sensitivity and specificity metrics. Only one assessment suggested that the technology was unlikely to be cost-effective under current assumptions.

CONCLUSIONS: Early health technology assessments can inform early-phase research and development of new health technology. The assessments we evaluated provided guidance on the best context for the potential use of the technologies, as well as a value-based price that could ensure optimal societal gain.