Norway

In late May 2023, the Norwegian Directorate of e-Health released an updated version of the Norwegian Laboratory code (NLK) system to be implemented no later than July 1, 2023. A total of 142 new codes were added, 33 codes were terminated, and 122 codes were amended.

In late March 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 May 1, 2023. Twenty-one new codes were added, 122 codes were changed, and one code was terminated.

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.

In December 2022, the Norwegian Directorate of Health published the final version of the DRG system (Innsatsstyrt finansiering, ISF) for 2023. Eight new DRGs concerning endocrinology, surgical procedures, infection diseases, genetics, and the general area will be added in 2023.

On November 23, 2022, 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 January 1, 2023. Eighty-six new codes were added, 207 codes were changed, and 27 codes were terminated.

In October 2022, the Norwegian Directorate of Health published a preliminary version of the DRG system (Innsatsstyrt finansiering, ISF) for 2023. Eight new DRGs will be added in 2023.

In October 2022, Ordering Forum for New Methods framework in Norway invited interested parties regarding hand-held electrocardiogram (ECG) devices connected to an app for diagnosing atrial fibrillation in adults (e.g., KardiaMobile). Information shall be submitted no later than November 29, 2022. Ordering Forum will be held on December 12, 2022, to decide whether the method will undergo evaluation at the national level.

The “New Method” is currently developing criteria for which methods other than drugs shall be prioritized for assessment within the framework at the national or local levels. On October 04, 2022, the development status was reported to the Ministry of Health and Care with the proposal on how the existing criteria could be used together with the criteria of the regulatory work in HTA.