WHY PATIENTS SHOULD BE INVOLVED IN HEALTH TECHNOLOGY ASSESSMENT.

Area of Science:

• Health Services Research
• Health Policy
• Patient Engagement

Background:

• Varying levels of patient involvement in Health Technology Assessment (HTA) processes exist globally.
• Some nations actively engage patients, while others are in early stages of consideration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present four key arguments for prioritizing patient involvement in HTA.
• To advocate for the inclusion of patient perspectives in HTA agencies that currently do not involve them.

Main Methods:

• A commentary presenting arguments for patient involvement in HTA.
• Arguments are framed from four distinct perspectives: patient rights, values, evidence, and methodology.

Main Results:

• Patient involvement is supported by rights (Alma-Ata Declaration), aligning with community values, and unique patient insights.
• Patient contributions enhance the HTA knowledge base and can drive methodological advancements.
• Involvement facilitates areas like early scientific advice and evidence development.

Conclusions:

• Integrating patient perspectives into HTA offers significant added value.
• This value extends to patients, policymakers, and healthcare professionals.