A Framework for Applying Health Technology Assessment in Cyprus: Thoughts, Success Stories, and Recommendations.

Abstract: Objectives: Health care decision making, assessment, and procurement of medicines is a complex, human resource–demanding, and time-consuming process. A thorough evaluation of all factors involved is necessary to optimize the process. The objective of this study was to describe and analyze the current stage of health technology assessment (HTA) in Cyprus. Methods: Literature research and private communication with all involved parties and competent authority. Moreover, data, decisions, and recommendations of the Drug’s Committee were used. Results: Cyprus is a latecomer in this field. HTA has entered a growing phase after the 2007 reform. It has not reached its full potential, and the current state is applicable only to the public sector, because of the nonexistence of a national health system. Therefore, this poses both a great challenge and a great barrier considering maximization of the value of money spent and health access equity. Conclusions: There is definitely enough space and clear necessity for further dissemination, and early successes indicate that steps should be taken toward the introduction of an HTA procedure that will cover both private and public sectors. The introduction of a national health system will further enhance the uptake of HTA, optimize the process, and use the common knowledge strategy for evidence-based decision making. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]