Why do we need HTA?

Health Technology Assessment (HTA) is a field of scientific research to inform policy and clinical decision making on the introduction and use of health technologies. Health technologies include pharmaceuticals, devices, diagnostics, procedures and other clinical, public health and organizational interventions.

HTA is a multidisciplinary field that addresses the clinical, economic, organizational, social, legal, and ethical impacts of a health technology, considering its specific healthcare context as well as available alternatives. The scope and methods of HTA may be adapted to the needs of a particular health system, but HTA processes and methods should be transparent, systematic, and rigorous.

In health systems throughout the world, HTA plays an essential role in supporting decision making.