Loading...
Publication: Introducing health technology assessment in Tanzania
Surgey, G Chalkidou, K Reuben, W Suleman, F Miot, J Hofman, K
Surgey, G
Chalkidou, K
Reuben, W
Suleman, F
Miot, J
Hofman, K
Citations
Altmetric:
Abstract
Objectives
Health technology assessment (HTA) is a cost-effective resource allocation tool in healthcare decision-making processes; however, its use is limited in low-income settings where countries fall short on both absorptive and technical capacity. This paper describes the journey of the introduction of HTA into decision-making processes through a case study revising the National Essential Medicines List (NEMLIT) in Tanzania. It draws lessons on establishing and strengthening transparent priority-setting processes, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa.
Methods
The concept of HTA was introduced in Tanzania through revision of the NEMLIT by identifying a process for using HTA criteria and evidence-informed decision making. Training was given on using economic evidence for decision making, which was then put into practice for medicine selection for the NEMLIT. During the revision process, capacity-building workshops were held with reinforcing messages on HTA.
Results
Between the period 2014 and 2018, HTA was introduced in Tanzania with a formal HTA committee being established and inaugurated followed by the successful completion and adoption of HTA into the NEMLIT revision process by the end of 2017. Consequently, the country is in the process of institutionalizing HTA for decision making and priority setting.
Conclusion
While the introduction of HTA process is country-specific, key lessons emerge that can provide an example to stakeholders in other low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) wishing to introduce priority-setting processes into health decision making.
Description
Date
2019-08-12
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Cambridge University Press
Collections
Research Projects
Organizational Units
Journal Issue
Keywords
Essential medicines list,Health technology assessment,Low- and middle-income countries,Priority setting,sub-Saharan Africa,Tanzania
Citation
Surgey G, Chalkidou K, Reuben W, et al. Introducing health technology assessment in Tanzania. International Journal of Technology Assessment in Health Care. 2019 Aug 12. doi: 10.1017/s0266462319000588