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SUPPORTING DECISION MAKING IN CROSS-BORDER REGIONS: A HEALTH TECHNOLOGY ASSESSMENT TOOL FOR HOSPITALS

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  20 December 2012

Saskia Knies
Affiliation:
Department of International Health and Department of Health Services Research, Maastricht University
Gloria Lombardi
Affiliation:
European Hospital and Healthcare Federation (HOPE)
Matt Commers
Affiliation:
Department of International Health, Maastricht University
Hans-Peter Dauben
Affiliation:
Deutsches Institut fur Medizinishe Dokumentation und Information (DIMDI)
Silvia Evers
Affiliation:
Department of Health Services Research, Maastricht University
Kai Michelsen
Affiliation:
Department of International Health, Maastricht University
Wija Oortwijn
Affiliation:
ECORYS Nederland BV
Chibuzo Opara
Affiliation:
Department of International Health, Maastricht University
Helmut Brand
Affiliation:
Department of International Health, Maastricht University

Abstract

Objectives: The aim of this study was to develop an health technology assessment (HTA) decision tool to support the decision-making process on health technologies for hospital decision makers in cross-border regions.

Methods: Several methods were used to collect information necessary to develop the cross-border mini-HTA decision tool. The literature was inventoried on HTA in border regions and local settings and the use of HTA by local decision makers. Semi-structured interviews with hospital decision makers in cross-border regions were also performed. Based on group discussion of the resulting information, it was decided to use the Danish mini-HTA guideline as a starting point for development of the decision tool. After finishing the first version of the decision tool it was tested in two pilot studies

Results: Some questions in the Danish mini-HTA guideline were not relevant. Other questions needed rephrasing and questions about cross-border situations were added. The pilots showed several missing topics, including legal questions and reimbursement issues. The final decision tool consists of three sections: a general section, a section for hospitals not cooperating cross-border and a section for hospitals that are cooperating with hospitals across a national or regional border.

Conclusions: Based on our literature search, this may be the first cross-border mini-HTA decision tool. The decision tool will be of help for healthcare professionals and decision makers in border settings who would like to use HTA evidence to support their decision-making process.

Type
METHODS
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 2012

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References

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