[Evidence-based health policies: The National Commission for Health Technology Assessment and Clinical Excellence in...

The National Commission for Health Technology Assessment and Clinical Excellence has driven improvements in transparency, equity, and technical standards for access to health technologies in Argentina. The objective was to comprehensively assess its impact and utility, addressing the gap in evidence regarding its effects on clinical practice and health management.

A descriptive mixed-methods study was designed, combining a narrative review of the literature and surveys administered to key stakeholders in the health system. The outcomes, values and impacts of the commission's work were also analyzed.

The commission successfully established principles of transparency and equity in the prioritization and recommendation processes for health technologies, producing over 100 reports and clinical practice guidelines achieving broad acceptance among professionals and decision makers. Its actions consolidated methodological standards and reinforced informed, equitable decision-making, although systematic measurement of its effects on clinical management and health budgets remains a challenge.

This work constitutes the first comprehensive evaluation of the commission's performance, highlighting its strategic role and the need to deepen objective metrics to enhance its influence across the Argentine health system.