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Stakeholder Engagement
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Project Background

In 2011, the Washington State Health Technology Assessment Program (WA HTA) commissioned the Center for Evidence-based Policy (CEbP) at Oregon Health & Science University to research the components of similar programs, write a report, and conduct WA HTA stakeholder engagement.

What Do We Do?

Since 2007, the Washington State Health Technology Assessment Program (WA HTA) has evaluated selected health technologies using evidence-based reviews and an independent clinical committee. The WA HTA strives to achieve better health care outcome for enrollees and beneficiaries of state programs by paying for health technologies that work.

HTA Releases Stakeholder Engagement Project Report

From Josh Morse, Health Technology Assessment Director

The results of the HTA Stakeholder Engagement project is posted below and includes two reports - the first comparing Washington State's program with other state, national and international programs, and the second surveying stakeholder attitudes and opinions about the process HTA follows and summarizing overall findings. In brief, the project found Washington's program comparable with other HTA programs. It also found that stakeholders are generally satisfied that the program is meeting its mandate, and its purpose is understood.

There is much more in these reports, of course, and we will review the findings and recommendations carefully over the next three months, looking for changes and action steps that will further improve our process. I'll report back to stakeholders when that review is complete.

Again, our thanks to all who participated in the project and to the Center for Evidence-based Policy, which compiled this information.

Who Are Our "Stakeholders?"

WA HTA stakeholders are individuals or groups who have an interest in our decisions, the evidence we use to support our decisions and the clinical impact of our decisions.

WA HTA Stakeholders Include:

  • Patients
  • Caregivers
  • Providers
  • Researchers
  • Advocates and advocacy groups
  • Professional societies
  • Policy makers
  • Elected officials
  • Industry representatives

What is the Purpose of the Project?

There is little evidence for what comprises "gold standard" components of HTA programs and processes. To address this gap, the WA HTA contracted for an independent review of common components of HTA programs. The review included outreach to stakeholders to assess their understanding and gather feedback about key WA HTA components, including:

  • Evidence and analysis
  • Transparency of program processes
  • Stakeholder engagement consistent with the Legislative mandate
  • Meeting program objectives in alignment with the Legislative mandate

Project Goals and Deliverables

  • A report describing public programs that use health technology assessment, and a categorization of key components of such programs.
    • Key Goal: Qualitative summary and analysis of HTA programs and their attributes
  • WA stakeholder engagement through survey, structured interviews, and facilitated meetings.
    • Key Goals: Educate stakeholders about Washington's Health Technology Assessment Program and its context; and identify opportunities for the program to be responsive to stakeholder needs.

Documents