Role of the Biomedical Engineering Department in William Beaumont Hospital's technology assessment process

Biomedical/Clinical Engineering Departments with expertise in engineering and technology management have a vital role to play in determining the potential for implementation and cost effectiveness of new medical technologies through technology assessment. Technology assessment offers the essential bridge between basic research and development and the prudent practical applications of medical technology. Because of the recent explosion of healthcare technologies, it is almost impossible for any single individual to stay abreast of these new technologies, much less provide an adequate assessment. To meet this need for comprehensive technology assessment, a multidisciplinary team approach is desirable. This paper deals with the assessment of medical technologies in a hospital environment and explores the possible roles biomedical engineering departments can play in the technology assessment process. It shares the experiences of the Biomedical Engineering Department of William Beaumont Hospital, a major, tertiary-care teaching institution currently involved in the technology assessment process utilizing a multidisciplinary team approach.