Introduction:

The Office of Health Technology Assessment Review has launched the second consultation of the Health Technology Assessment (HTA) Review, a crucial step towards improving Australia’s HTA policies and methods. This article is based on the latest HTA Review updates published early in February 2024 by the Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee (PBAC).

The Purpose and Goals of Consultation 2

The HTA Review’s Consultation 2 is a significant part of the Strategic Agreement, aimed at ensuring Australia’s assessment processes stay abreast with rapid advances in health technology. The consultation seeks to understand potential implications and identify unintended outcomes of the proposed options for reform.

The Role of the HTA Review Reference Committee

The HTA Review Reference Committee, announced by the Minister for Health in October 2022, oversees the HTA Review. The Committee plays a crucial role in developing the options paper and considering feedback from various stakeholders before finalising recommendations.

Participating in Consultation 2

Stakeholders are invited to participate through an online survey or attend workshops, either in-person or online. The consultation period is open until the end of February 2024, with workshops scheduled throughout the month.

The Scope and Impact of Consultation 2

The consultation welcomes feedback on the Options Paper in relation to the proposed HTA review scope. The outcomes of this consultation could shape the future of HTA policies and methods, potentially impacting stakeholders across the healthcare industry.

Conclusion:

The HTA Review’s Consultation 2 is a crucial step towards improving Australia’s health technology assessment processes. The feedback and insights gained from this process will undoubtedly shape the future of healthcare in the country.