The Norwegian "New Method" framework is developing prioritization criteria for the evaluation of medical technologies and procedures

In 2013, Norway established a framework, "New Method," for the introduction of innovations into the health care system through either a national or hospital-based health technology assessment. In this framework, all innovations should undergo HTA before being funded. 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.

 The "New method" framework evaluates three types of methods:

• Drugs
• Medical equipment, diagnostics, and tests
• Procedures and organizational measures

For now, there are no clear criteria for methods other than drugs, and it is partly random which technology will be evaluated within the "New Method" framework.

In January 2021, the Ordering Forum of "New Method" commissioned the project to develop criteria for which methods other than drugs shall be prioritized for assessment within the framework at the national or local levels. Two groups were created to work on the project. The main group consists of the National Institute of Public Health (NIPH), the regional health authorities (RHA), Hospital Procurement HF, Melanor (industry association), Secretariat of the "New Method" and others; the internal group consists of NIPH, Hospital Procurement HF, and Secretariat. Every group had two meetings in 2021.

On January 17, 2022, the project status was presented at the Ordering Forum for "New Method." It was reported that the project would require more resources and time than initially thought. The assignment concerned "methods other than drugs," but initially, only medical technology (equipment, diagnostics, and tests) was considered. The internal group now suggests assessing whether the same set of criteria can be used for procedures and organizational measures. Secretariate also asked Ordering Forum to clarify whether criteria for artificial intelligence and digital technologies should also be considered.

See the full details here.

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