New national guideline on gestational diabetes has been published in Norway

A new preeclampsia screening algorithm has been evaluated within the "New Method" framework since 2021. The algorithm helps to predict the risk of preeclampsia in the first trimester based on several parameters, including ultrasound examination and measurement of the Placenta Growth Factor (PIGF). In March 2023, the Decision Forum for "New Method" was held and commissioned to perform the implementation study of a new screening algorithm at St. Olav's Hospital.

In January and February 2023, Ordering Forum for the “New Methods” framework invited interested parties regarding several technologies proposed for evaluation within the framework. The technologies concern arteriovenous fistula for hemodialysis, deep brain stimulation, epidural spinal cord stimulation, and digital chest drain. Ordering Forum will decide whether the technology undergoes evaluation at the national level.

Surgery for rotator cuff tears has been evaluated within the "New Method" framework since 2020. In January 2023, the method assessment phase was completed, and the National Institute of Public Health (NIPH) report was published. As the recommendations from HTA are now available, the Decision Forum needs to make a coverage decision regarding the method.

On January 23, 2023, the Norwegian Directorate of e-Health released an updated version of the National Laboratory code (NLK) system and associated tariffs for state and private laboratories to be implemented no later than March 1, 2023. Twenty-four new codes were added, 179 codes were changed, and 23 codes were terminated.

In January 2023, the updated Pathology Activity Codes (APAT) of the Norwegian Pathology Code system (NORPAT) came into force. Since 2022, APAT codes have been included in the new reimbursement scheme by Helfo (the Norwegian Health Economics Administration) for outpatient pathology services. Five new classified sample materials for cytology and 22 new additional codes for the method of testing were added to the scheme in 2023.