31 January 2017 - Assessing medical devices raises challenges which require us to reflect on whether current methods are adequate. 

Major features of devices are: (i) device–operator interaction can generate learning curve effects; (ii) incremental nature of innovation needs to be addressed by careful identification of the alternatives for comparative and incremental cost-effectiveness analysis; and (iii) broader organisational impact in terms of training and infrastructure, coupled with dynamic pricing, requires a more flexible approach to costing.

The objective of the MedtecHTA project was to investigate improvements in HTA methods to allow for more comprehensive evaluation of MDs. It consisted of several work packages concerning (i) the available evidence on the currently adopted approaches for regulation and HTA of medical devices; (ii) the geographical variation in access to medical devices; (iii) the development of methodological frameworks for conducting comparative effectiveness research and economic evaluation of medical devices; and (iv) the organisational impact of medical devices.

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