OP303 Do You Get The Message? Making HTA Findings Easier For Decision-Makers To Implement

• Published in: International journal of technology assessment in health care 2021-12, Vol.37 (S1), p.11-11
• Main Authors: Kandulu, Jess, Clifton, Ed, Robertson, Iain, Smart, Neil, Macpherson, Karen
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Councils; Decision making; Economic models; Meetings; Oral Presentations; Technology assessment
• ISSN: 0266-4623; 1471-6348
• DOI: 10.1017/S026646232100091X

IntroductionOften health technology assessment (HTA) products developed by the Scottish Health Technologies Group (SHTG) did not reach clear directive conclusions because the evidence base for a technology was weak. Despite being methodologically robust, these products did not meet the needs of decision-makers and may have had negligible impact.MethodsSHTG set out to equip and empower the recommendation-making council (that is, appraisal committee) to reach clear conclusions. SHTG broadened the HTA components and types of evidence that could be considered. The increased breadth of evidence included: clinicians attending council meetings to respond to questions; patient groups making submissions and presenting at council meetings; Scotland-specific economic modelling; and consultation on draft recommendations. SHTG also restructured the council for improved deliberative decision-making.ResultsClear directive conclusions were reached in a substantially higher proportion of HTA products (eighty-eight percent in 2019 compared with eight percent in 2017). It became possible for decision-makers to implement findings. It also became feasible to assess the impact and implementation of recommendations.ConclusionsBroadening SHTG's consideration of HTA components has led to a clearer conclusion being reached and stronger messaging for decision makers. This positions SHTG to increase its influence in the use of health technologies in Scotland.