Technology assessment: relationship to coverage issues--a case for temporary coverage decisions

Making appropriate coverage decisions has the potential of impacting patient outcomes. In both the public and private sectors, great diversity exists in the methodology and process used to make coverage decisions. Because definitional issues are important, they are described in this article. The underpinning of coverage decisions are a commitment to certain methodological principles, including embracing evidence-based medicine. The role of the federal government and local entities in regard to evidence production and process as well as methodology used to formulate policy decisions is complex and requires resolution. A temporary coverage decision can be a helpful tool when no consensus exists.