IVI releases report on integrating equity in HTA

IVI’s new report outlines steps for stakeholders to integrate equity in HTA and address disparities, focusing on data, methods and fair healthcare outcomes.

A report titled “Fulfilling the Promise of Equity in Value-Based Care: A Focus on Data and Methods in Health Technology Assessment” has recently been released by non-profit research organization the Innovation and Value Initiative (IVI), which aims to advance health technology assessment (HTA) in health care. This report is the second in a series that highlights actionable steps for stakeholders to address health disparities and equity within HTA.

Following extensive discussions with over 40 stakeholders, including payers, industry representatives, patients, carers, researchers and employers, IVI identified four key domains that shape equity in HTA: Data & Inputs; Methods (covered in this report); Power, People, and Processes (examined in the first report); and Communications and Use (to be covered in a future report).

The current report outlines specific actions for key stakeholders involved in shaping HTA, with an emphasis on the Data & Inputs and Methods areas. These steps include:

Data & Inputs

1. Exploring questions about HTA’s impact on health disparities
2. Prioritizing representative data reflective of impacted populations
3. Defining and addressing data gaps hindering equity-centered HTA

Methods

1. Acknowledging limitations in data and methods affecting equity analysis
2. Testing and adopting new methodological approaches to account for equity

Melanie Ridley, IVI’s Chief Development and Programs Officer, emphasized the urgent need for a reformed approach to HTAs, stating,

“Our approach to health technology assessment in the US must be revolutionized to confront the realities of cost, worsening health outcomes, and health disparities head-on. The narrative of ‘No Value Without Equity’ woven throughout this report is a testament to IVI’s commitment to redefine what matters in health care valuation – championing methods that begin with patient engagement, identify and consider the impact on health disparities, and prioritize patient-centered, equitable outcomes above all.”

This initiative emphasizes the importance of incorporating equity considerations into HTA processes to promote equitable healthcare outcomes for all individuals. The full report provides insights and recommendations for advancing equity in value-based care through HTA, benefiting stakeholders focused on healthcare equity.