Funding

Swedish Medical Technologies Product (MTP) Council is currently evaluating devices for spinal cord stimulation (SCS) as part of the Orderly introduction framework, a staged process aimed at managing the national introduction of novel technologies. On September 23, 2022, MTP Council commissioned the Dental and Pharmaceutical Benefits Agency (TLV) to perform a health economic evaluation of five SCS devices. Based on the TLV assessment, MTP Council will make recommendations to regions regarding the introduction of SCS devices and the criteria for use.

The Dental and Pharmaceutical Benefits Agency (TLV) has planned a theme survey on products for the diagnosis or treatment of lung cancer and colorectal cancer to identify products that may be relevant for health economic assessments at TLV. The survey is planned to be carried out in September – October 2022. No further information has been provided yet.

On September 5, 2022, it was announced that the Interterritorial Council for the Spanish National Health System (CISNS) approved the distribution of funds to the Autonomous Communities for the fight against cancer. The aim is to boost the screening programs for colorectal and cervical cancer.

In September 2022, Ordering Forum for New Methods has invited interested parties regarding electric field therapy (Optune, Tumor Treating Fields) alone or in combination with drugs for certain groups of glioblastoma patients, based on genome sequencing and biomarkers (indication II). Information should be submitted before November 8, 2022. Ordering Forum will be held on November 21, 2022, to decide whether the method will undergo evaluation at the national level.

On August 26, 2022, Swedish Medical Technologies Product (MTP) Council announced ongoing horizon scanning within the Orderly introduction framework for products that promote the transition to so-called “Close care” (Nära vård). Products of interest should enable diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up outside a healthcare facility, for example, remote monitoring. The Dental and Pharmaceutical Benefits Agency (TLV) initiated a theme survey, accepting suggestions until September 28, 2022.

On July 5, 2022, it was announced by the Ministry of Health that the Council of Ministers authorized the tender for the purchase of ten units of equipment for the treatment with proton therapy and associated electromedical equipment for an estimated value of €271 million (VAT included).

On May 31, 2022, it was announced by the Ministry of Health that the Council of Ministers authorized the distribution of almost €400 million for the renovation of high-tech equipment in the National Health System (SNS) through the High-End Technology Equipment Investment Plan (INVEAT) of the SNS.

On April 25, 2022, the Decision Forum for "New Method" recommended not to use the endobronchial valve (Zephyr) to reduce lung volume in severe emphysema treatment, as there was no evidence of the long-term effectiveness. The method can be used in the context of clinical studies.

On April 25, 2022, the Decision Forum for "New Method" did not prioritize any surgical procedure in the treatment of morbid obesity. Available evidence in the complete method assessment shows minor or no difference in weight loss, diabetes control, or health-related quality of life when using various surgical procedures. The comparative effect on the risk of early mortality, progression of obesity, and obesity-related comorbidities was not possible to determine. The cost differences are non-significant. Further research was recommended.

A new test called Genedrive System to detect babies at risk of gentamycin-related deafness was developed at the University of Manchester, funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR). On April 02, 2022, NHS England and NHS Improvement announced that Genedrive is now fully CE certified to be used in a clinical setting. The test is expected to be implemented in routine care in all NHS Manchester Foundation Trust hospitals within several weeks.

On April 12, 2022, NHS England and NHS Improvement (NHSE/I) published 2022/23 priorities and operational planning guidance, including elective recovery planning supporting guidance, capital guidance for 2022-25, and revenue finance and contracting guidance. The 2022/23 priorities and operational planning guidance set out NHSE/I priorities for the year ahead and reconfirms the ongoing need to restore services, meet new care demands, and reduce the care backlogs that are a direct consequence of the pandemic.

On April 11, 2022, the Swedish Medical Technologies Product (MTP) Council released recommendations on devices for diagnosing atrial fibrillation via self-recording of electrocardiogram evaluated within the Orderly Introduction framework since 2020. MTP Council outlined that Coala Heart Monitor and Zenicor ECG could be used in certain types of patients only, whereas KardiaMobile, CardioMem CM 100 XT, and PhysioMem should be refrained from use.