European Commission’s proposal on Health Technology Assessment (HTA)

The European Consumer Organisation (BEUC) welcomes the European Commission’s proposal on Health Technology Assessment (HTA). Too many new drugs or medical devices do not make a real difference compared to those already on the market but are nonetheless reimbursed by healthcare systems. In addition, an increasing number of medicines are authorised on the basis of very limited data but still come to the market at a very high price. HTA is a process that helps promote evidence-based healthcare. Therefore, if implemented properly, HTA has the potential to help governments save money, and rewards only health technology that brings benefits to consumers.