Adaptive Evolution in Rapid Assessments: A 25-Year Perspective

Area of Science:

• Health Services Research
• Health Technology Assessment
• Health Economics

Background:

• The Health Technology Assessment (HTA) Program at the Institute of Health Economics has a 25-year collaborative history with the Alberta Health Ministry (AHM).
• This relationship involved the production of numerous rapid assessments (RAs) to meet specific requester needs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To retrospectively examine the evolution of RAs produced by the HTA Program for the AHM over 25 years.
• To understand the interplay between AHM requirements and the HTA Program's methodological development.

Main Methods:

• A review of the number, types, and methodological attributes of RAs produced over the 25-year period.
• Charting the reasons for changes in RA processes and products, analyzing the dynamic between requester needs and HTA program capabilities.

Main Results:

• The HTA Program and AHM relationship fostered RA diversity, with less adaptable types becoming obsolete.
• Adaptations in RA methodology were driven by evolving best practice standards, AHM needs, the healthcare landscape, and advancements in staff expertise and technology.

Conclusions:

• Rapid assessments are a valuable component of Health Technology Assessment programs.
• Continuous evolution of RAs, guided by user needs and HTA best practices, is essential for sustained relevance and utility.