Development of the Health Technology Assessment in the world

Abstract

The health technologies assessment (HTA) aims to systematically qualify and quantify, or develop the scientific knowledge about technology(s) relevant to healthcare program(s), to make more objective decisions to adopt, or either increase rational use or disinvestment, based on solid scientific evidence and considering the basic principles of social justice and fiscal responsibility. The influence of international HTA programs brought some relevant lessons, for example: (a) the parallel between the installed capacity and the context of experience, which can provide ideas/knowledge to develop innovations and industries, (b) the influence of the change in pattern of coverage decisions, merit and cost-effectiveness or accountability, even in health systems with private market model, ahead to the escalating costs in the health sector, (c) the systematic monitoring of care processes incorporated to discriminate improvement opportunities or parameterize potential benefits of new technologies and comparisons, and (d) the capillary work within networks potentiate capacity, number of authors and specialties, awareness, a sense of belonging and adherence to decisions, resulting in actions for the health sector with higher quality. With the best available solid foundation when making the decision, in addition to civil and legal defense of those involved in the decision, the HTA is the best response to the challenge of greater solidarity and the principles of equity and access.