How is a Health Technology Assessment done?
Once a health technology assessment topic has been selected, and specific research questions have been clearly defined, a multidisciplinary team of researchers is assembled to collect, synthesize, and analyze available evidence on the technology. The well defined and transparent assessment process is designed to minimize potential bias, and includes a detailed description of the scientific methodology used. The findings of the assessment are summarized in a detailed report, which translates scientific data and research results into information that is relevant to health care decision makers. The report is extensively peer reviewed by leading scientific experts from the academic and medical communities. The final step in the health technology assessment process is dissemination of the findings to accelerate and enhance evidence-based decisions about health policy and purchasing, service management, and clinical practice.