UEMO’s position paper on HTA
At the end of the HTA network collaboration for the European regulation and before the implementation, UEMO wants to express its gratitude to the work done by EUnetHTA and the EC. UEMO was happy to participate in the debates: a new challenge for a profession centered on individual relationships1, to be confronted to the impact of new technologies and the principles of assessment from a European point of view.
The shared decision process in general practice is the key moment of HTA in real life, when GPs who are the main prescribers, discuss with their patients the best choice, including the important dimensions: the bio-psycho-social aspects, continuity of care and coordination, multi-morbidity and quaternary prevention (first do not harm). This shared decision takes place in a difficult context “compounded by the implications of ever-increasing expectations of perfect health and the effects of multinational commercial pressures”, as said Iona Heath.
GPs need confidence in HTA process, its methodology based on EBM, while remaining free from conflicts of interest and while being transparent. GPs need good information in plain language and which is also understandable by patients and which allows for an honest discussion.
GPs consider that for new technologies which are linked with information and communication technologies, confidentiality and the safety of data both during transmission and in storage (cloud) is a very important topic to discuss in the interest of the patient.
GPs are concerned by pathways and procedures, by the practical use and feasibility of a new technology. For example in the covid epidemic, GPs were at the frontline and good information and decision algorithms (including them in the design) were mandatory to discuss and debate with patients.
In a recent study on personalized medicine, 90% of patients want to discuss with their GPs if such technology is implementable. The idea that industry can have a direct-to-consumer link without any mediation is a commercial vision. General practice will maintain its role in the future and will need sustainable development as a speciality.
UEMO informed GPs throughout the HTA discussions.
UEMO wants to continue the collaboration with HTA in the future:
- UEMO can help for the identification of experts in general practice.
- UEMO has contacts with the majority of general practice associations in Europe and can help with interviewing GPs and gathering opinions in Europe (focus groups for example) .
- UEMO has permanent contacts with Wonca and its networks and other special interest groups who can promote specific GP research in HTA.
- As a stakeholder UEMO can remember how to integrate new technologies while respecting the values of general practice (Wonca tree)
