NHS research and development: a research strategy for nuclear medicine

Area of Science:

• Health Services Research
• Health Technology Assessment
• Medical Innovation Policy

Background:

• The National Health Service (NHS) research and development strategy aims to ensure care is evidence-based.
• A target was set for 1.5% of the NHS budget to be allocated to research and development.
• The Standing Group on Health Technology (SGHT) was established to advise on health technology assessment needs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To define Health Technology Assessment (HTA) as evaluating the effectiveness, costs, and impact of health technologies.
• To identify new, existing, and emerging technologies requiring assessment within the NHS.
• To prioritize technologies needing evaluation before widespread adoption.

Main Methods:

• The Diagnostics and Imaging Panel, part of the SGHT, was tasked with identifying technologies for assessment.
• Formal consultation processes were conducted at regional and national levels.
• Recommendations were gathered from NHS bodies, patient groups, and professional organizations, including the BNMS and EANM.

Main Results:

• 197 recommendations for HTA were received.
• 16 high-priority recommendations were identified and forwarded to the SGHT in October 1993.

Conclusions:

• The process identified key areas and technologies requiring rigorous assessment to ensure value and effectiveness in the NHS.
• Prioritization of HTA is crucial for informed decision-making on technology adoption and resource allocation.
• Collaboration with professional societies and patient groups is vital for comprehensive technology evaluation.