- Funding Programme
- Year
- 2022
Improving the Use of HTA in Decision-Making in Latvia
The European Commission provided comprehensive support to Ministry of Health and the State Agency of Medicines of Latvia by mapping the HTA process in Latvia, reviewing international best practices by involving experts from the UK, Austria and Estonia, and developing a National HTA Strategy and Action Plan. Additionally, in cooperation with HTA experts, the HTA guidelines were drafted, HTA training for professionals were conducted and HTA guidelines on two new technologies were tested.
Context
The project addressed the challenges faced by the SAM in assessing non-pharmaceutical technologies, due to limited clinical evidence, lack of common criteria for cost-effectiveness and resource limitations. The project,established a foundation for non-pharmaceutical technology assessment by developing guidelines that include both clinical and economic assessments, to facilitate future evaluations and the reimbursement process for technologies in Latvia. Additionally, the Ministry of health set up the HTA Council to developing a comprehensive HTA process that will inform the National Health Service and the Ministry of Health about healthcare investments in a resource-constrained environment.
This initiative aligns with EU policy priorities (a more circular and resilient economy, Horizon Europe - Health) and leads to better healthcare decision-making and resource allocation, supporting economic growth and innovation in the health sector (Sustainable Prosperity), contributing to a resilient healthcare system and better public health outcomes (Quality of Life) and ensuring equitable access to effective health technologies (Social Fairness).
Support delivered
During the project, a mapping of the use of HTA in Latvia was conducted and good practices were reviewed. By collaborating with various stakeholders (MoH, SAM, NHS, universities) and healthcare experts from AIHTA and RSU, the team co-developed the National HTA strategy, Action plan and drafted HTA guidelines. Furthermore, in collaboration with healthcare experts from AIHTA and RSU, HTA training was organised and tested on two technologies. The project identified the necessary requirements for improving HTA capabilities in Latvia and outlined the essential further steps to enhance decision-making.
Results achieved
Key achievements included improving the skills of HTA experts through targeted training and HTA testing on new technologies, which established a solid knowledge foundation for conducting assessments on a broader range of technologies. Additionally, the project led to the establishment of an HTA council, chaired by the State Secretary, which is focused on setting HTA governance and defining the tasks necessary for conducting HTA in Latvia in the long term. Additionally, as a result of the project and increased awareness of capacity limitations, the Ministry of Health has approved two new personnel to join the State Agency of Medicines.
Useful links
More about the project
You can read the documents related to the project here: