OBJECTIVES: This study is to review drug policies, health technology assessment (HTA), and its use in drug policies in China, further to improve the quality and efficiency of drugs.

METHODS: This study draws on multiple methods. A systematic review of the literature along with Chinese government documents and statistical handbooks were combined with authors’ experiences on drug policies and HTA in China.

RESULTS: Of 571 studies identified in the initial search, 14 eligible papers (6 English, 8 Chinese) were finally included. In the website of National Health and Family Planning Commission, National Development and Reform Commission, and Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security, we find that HTA or pharmacoeconomics evaluation is mentioned in recent years and its frequency has been increasing, however, we do not find one hot topic from China Food and Drug Administration.

CONCLUSIONS: The decision makers have realized the importance and value of HTA and have tried to integrate HTA into drug policies and regulations. However, the application of HTA findings to drug policy making is not yet widespread and there is a number of challenges in using HTA in China. Therefore, it is necessary to establish a national HTA commission and develop pharmacoeconomics guidelines to support the use of HTA in decision making. Moreover, the most important steps are to encourage technology innovation, cultivate more HTA experts, and build reliable databases in China.