The 2026 Work Programme for the joint EU-level HTA framework released

On November 28, 2025, the Member State Coordination Group on Health Technology Assessment (HTACG) published its annual Work Programme for 2026, outlining the priorities and activities of the HTACG and its subgroups within the joint EU-level HTA framework (EU HTAR). The framework became fully operational on January 12, 2025.

In 2026, the first joint clinical assessments (JCAs) for medical devices are planned to be initiated. The HTACG may launch approximately five JCAs covering a selection of medical devices, which may also include in-vitro diagnostics. The first assessments are expected to start in June 2026.

For medicinal products, 12 JCAs are currently under development, and an additional 50 are anticipated to begin in 2026.

The HTACG will continue to offer Joint Scientific Consultations (JSCs) to developers of medicines and medical devices. In 2026, the HTACG plans to initiate between two and five JSCs for medical devices. Through its JSC Subgroup, the HTACG will work towards gradually increasing the number of consultations in subsequent years.

Requests for JSCs may only be submitted during the application periods specified in the HTACG Annual Work Programme. In 2026, the submission periods are as follows:

• 7 January to 4 February 2026
• 1 to 29 April 2026
• 3 June to 1 July 2026
• 23 September to 21 October 2026

Requests for JSCs must be submitted via the secure HTA IT platform using the dedicated JSC request templates. Following approval of a JSC request, applicants are required to submit a briefing document, which constitutes a more detailed dossier. 

See the full details in English here and here.

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