The Commission invites stakeholders to take stock of feedback received so far and to discuss their views about the future cooperation on Health Technology Assessment (HTA), at a conference on 9 July. Thematic sessions in the conference will focus on important aspects relevant for both the current and any possible future HTA cooperation, such as on engaging with patients and clinicians, generating evidence in the pre-market phase, and managing uncertainty in the post-launch phase.

At the conference, Commissioner Vytenis Andriukaitis will share the Commission’s proposals for an enhanced cooperation. Other speakers include Soledad Cabezón Ruiz, rapporteur for the European Parliament, Clemens Auer, Director-General of the Austrian Ministry of Health, and Dimitris Dimitriadis, rapporteur for the European Economic and Social Committee.

Over 300 policy makers, healthcare providers, patient representatives, experts from HTA bodies, academia and industry will take part in the interactive conference.

Background

In 2016, the European Commission started work on strengthening EU cooperation on Health Technology Assessment (HTA) in response to calls from EU countries, the European Parliament, and interested parties to ensure its sustainability beyond 2020. In January 2018 the Commission adopted a legislative proposal which is currently discussed by the European Parliament and the Council.

The proposed Regulation on Health Technology Assessment (HTA) covers new medicines and certain new medical devices, providing the basis for permanent and sustainable cooperation at the EU level for joint clinical assessments in these areas.

Member States will be able to use common HTA tools, methodologies and procedures across the EU, working together in four main areas:

• on joint clinical assessments focusing on the most innovative health technologies with the most potential impact for patients;
• on joint scientific consultations whereby developers can seek advice from HTA authorities;
• on identification of emerging health technologies to identify promising technologies early; and
• on continuing voluntary cooperation in other areas.

Practical information

• Monday 9 July 2018, 10:00-17:30
• Charlemagne Building (Alcide de Gasperi room, Rue de la Loi 170)
• Conference programme and online registration