CURRENT IMPLEMENTATION OF HEALTH TECHNOLOGY ASSESSMENT IN HEALTHCARE SYSTEM IN SLOVENIA

Objectives: The objective of this study was to analyze and present the current state of the implementation of health technology assessment (HTA) in Slovenia, identify its advantages and challenges, as well as potential improvements and developments. Methods: The HTA structure and processes were analyzed and comprehensively described according to relevant literature, official documents, and experiences of the author. Results: The important steps in the development and implementation of an HTA system are presented through eight key elements: capacity building; HTA funding; HTA legislation and organizational structure; the scope of HTA implementation; decision criteria; quality, timelines, and transparency of HTA implementation; use of local data; and international collaboration. Based on the current situation, possible further developments are presented. Conclusions: Currently, there is no systematic HTA in Slovenia; however, some basic use of HTA principles can be found in the decision making. The biggest deficiency in the HTA field is the lack of knowledge and systematic implementation. Legislation and guidelines for study appraisals are needed at decision-making levels. HTA principles across health technologies need to be unified along with a central HTA coordination office being set up to lead and establish priorities for HTA work.