Norway

Three mini-method assessments regarding the magnetic non-radioactive detection system SentiMag Sienna + of sentinel lymph nodes in breast cancer, cough reflex testing and emergency targeted ultrasound implementation were initiated by Oslo University Hospital in June of 2018. All finalized mini-method assessments are published in the National Database for Mini-HTA.

In June of 2018, the Norwegian Institute of Public Health (NIPH) has published a single technology assessment regarding the MicraTM Transcatheter Pacing System (Micra TPS) - a leadless pacemaker produced by Medtronic to reduce the rate of complications following pacemaker implantations through design and novel technology. The objective of the assessment was to investigate the clinical efficacy, safety and cost effectiveness of Micra TPS in patients indicated for single chamber ventricular pacemaker implantation. The results have shown that the current evidence is not sufficient to prove that the Micra TPS gives less complications than standard pacemakers, also the use of Micra appeared not to be cost-effective.

On the 14th of May of 2018, Norwegian RHF Decision Forum (Beslutningsforum) has recommended usage of the Flash Glucose Monitoring system - Freestyle Libre for the treatment and follow-up of children (less than 18 years) with type 1 diabetes and other types of diabetes.

Two mini-method assessments regarding brachytherapy for esophageal cancer and targeted gene deep-sequencing panels were initiated by Oslo University Hospital in May of 2018. All finalized mini-method assessments are published in the National Database for Mini-HTA.

Norwegian Institute of Public Health (NIPH) conducted a full health technology assessment (HTA) of Peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT) using 177Luthetium (177Lu-PRRT) on the request from payers (“New methods” framework for introduction of innovations in Norway).

Remote follow-up for chronically ill patients is included in a new trial that will start in Norway in autumn 2018. Six municipal cooperation projects received grants to participate in this trial in collaboration with the National Welfare Technology Program (Nasjonalt velferdsteknologiprogram).

On the 30th of May of 2018, Norwegian Institute of Public Health (NIPH) has published a report regarding effectiveness of shunt treatment for persons with idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus, which was earlier commissioned to NIPH by My treatment choices platform with the purpose to find and summarize key findings from systematic reviews about the effects of shunts in the treatment of idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus.

The report “Development Trend 2018” will help to provide a basis for analyzing the environment for eHealth and creating a frame of reference for understanding the eHealth development.

Ninety-two new codes have been implemented, including protein fractions and reproductive medicine tests.

Applications for creation of new codes, removal of code or changes to existing codes and code description can be submitted by the Norwegian Directorate of Health.

Since January 1, 2018, responsibility for managing the product regulations for medical devices is transferred from the Norwegian Directorate of Health to the Norwegian Medicines Agency.

The current guideline replaces the previous version of the document of 2010. The Norwegian Directorate of Health decided to update the guideline because new methods of treatment and rehabilitation of stroke became avaliable in recent years.