What is an HTA?
HTA is a process used by NHS QIS to advise NHSScotland about a specific health intervention (eg medicine, equipment or diagnostic test). HTA evaluates the clinical and cost effectiveness of the various ways in which the health intervention can be used, comparing alternative interventions where appropriate. Patient and organisational aspects, including professional, legal and ethical issues are considered in detail.
At the end of all assessments, recommendations are made to NHSScotland. These are published in a comprehensive assessment report accompanied by a short summary suitable for people without specialist knowledge of the topic.
The report and summary are made available to health professionals and the public. The recommendations are evidence based but value judgments are also made following discussion with experts.
It is recognised that some topics require less thorough investigation and have a narrower focus than others, perhaps with few organisational or patient issues.
How will the assessment be carried out?
HTA is an internationally recognised process. Evidence identified by literature searching together with evidence provided by experts, patient interest groups and manufacturers will be critically appraised and robust analyses will be undertaken by expert staff. Questionnaires may be undertaken to ascertain current clinical practice and patient preferences.
NHS QIS staff from a variety of disciplines will conduct the assessment and will also seek advice from health professionals who are expert in this area.
There will be a consultation period during which a draft report and recommendations will be published on this website. Anyone with an interest in the topic will be invited to submit comments. All comments will be given due consideration and the report will be updated accordingly.
NHS QIS staff from a variety of disciplines will conduct the assessment and will also seek advice from health professionals who are expert in this area.
There will be a consultation period during which a draft report and recommendations will be published on this website. Anyone with an interest in the topic will be invited to submit comments. All comments will be given due consideration and the report will be updated accordingly.
How will the report affect patient care?
The results of the assessment will be used as the basis of recommendations for NHSScotland on the provision of epoetinum alfa to reduce exposure to allogeneic blood transfusions. It will then be up to health professionals in NHSScotland to ensure that these recommendations are put into practice.
How was this topic selected for assessment?
NHS QIS established a Steering Group on the Safe, Effective and Efficient Use of Blood Components and their Alternatives in April 2004. The Steering Group requested analysis of the use of epoetinum alfa in this indication.