What is needed to successfully implement the EU HTA Regulation enabling broad patient access in Europe

Abstract

There has been a lot of discussion on the technical aspects of the soon to be implemented European Union’s Health Technology Assessment (EU HTA) regulation. However, there has been limited discussion on the implementation aspects and the potential limitations from a policy perspective. In May 2024, a group of HTA experts with previous policy responsibilities met in Rome to propose some policy aspects to be considered.

As a result of the discussion, several proposals were made. Building mutual trust, improving collaboration and engaging all relevant stakeholders seems a must. Equally important are the communication aspects, and ensuring equal commitment by all parties, allocating the appropriate incentives at all levels. Finally, it is noted that the EU HTA regulation has to be seen from the perspective of a wider policy change within the large EU legal framework.