A training course in health technology assessment in Malaysia

This article describes a 1-week training course in health technology assessment (HTA) presented in Malaysia by the Ministry of Health in 1996. Malaysia established an HTA unit in the Ministry of Health in 1995 and a National Health Technology Assessment Program in 1996. The purpose of the course was to develop HTA knowledge and skills in Malaysia, since these are largely lacking. The course consisted of didactic sessions and group work. Didactic sessions covered the principles of HTA. Group work was for the purpose of developing practical skills, and was based on reports from HTA agencies, published articles, and candidates for assessment suggested by course participants. Course participants were a mix of physicians, nurses, hospital administrators, and Ministry of Health officials. Experiences in this course may be helpful to others who wish to organize training courses in developing countries.