Medical Technology Evaluation And Adoption
Designing an Alternative System of Health Technology Assessment for Massachusetts
In a novel project, Boston University researchers partnered with Blue
Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts (BCBSMA) and a major medical technology company to explore the feasibility of an alternative approach to health technology assessment (HTA) that might be tested within Massachusetts. Completed in late 2007, this $75,000 project examined existing HTA practices used by various organizations and groups to evaluate medical technologies and to make coverage policy decisions. The BU team also scanned the research literature and the healthcare field nationally to identify innovative, promising approaches to HTA. Interviews with physician specialists provided an understanding of the factors driving providers’ decisions to adopt or not adopt new technologies. A key aspect of this project was the potential for building a strategic alliance between health plans and technology manufacturers that would encourage earlier information exchange in the HTA process. The project was a collaborative effort between the Boston University School of Public Health and the Boston University Health Policy Institute. Lewis E. Kazis of the BUSPH served as the project director. HPRP researchers included Alan B. Cohen (co-director) and Jennifer E. Drake (project manager).
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