Early HTA Terminology Working Group

Clear definition of the term “early HTA” is lacking and there is confusion with related terms such as “early advice”, “early dialogue”, and “development-focused HTA”. Reaching a consensus on what is meant by each of these terms will form a foundation for discussion and dialogue about the best methods to adopt and improve the profile of the work.

Join this Working Group

htai women talking to eachother standing in group
Working Group

Early HTA Terminology Working Group

Established in June 2023 (work completed in December 2024)

Overview

The HTAi Early HTA Terminology Working Group aims to reach consensus on the definition of early HTA and related terms (early dialogue, early advice, development-focused HTA), to clearly delineate what does not constitute early HTA and link proposed definitions with existing HTA and early awareness definitions in the HTA Glossary. The methods are as follows: 

Revised definitions and supporting materials circulated for rating. Consensus will be considered to be reached if 70% of respondents agree or strongly agree. If consensus is not reached on a particular aspect a further round may be considered.

Develop definitions and supporting materials for Delphi process, which includes:

  • Rapid review of the literature for existing definitions and frameworks
  • Core working group and Advisory Board develop definitions and supporting materials informed by the rapid review

A two-stage Delphi process

  • Initial round presenting definitions and supporting materials to individuals involved in evaluation of new health technologies from industry, agencies and academia.
  • Revised definitions and supporting materials circulated for rating. Consensus will be considered to be reached if 70% of respondents agree or strongly agree. If consensus is not reached on a particular aspect a further round may be considered.

Outcomes

Main article:

Grutters JPC, Bouttell J, Abrishami P, et al.
Defining early health technology assessment: building consensus using Delphi technique. 
International Journal of Technology Assessment in Health Care. 2025;41(1):e34.

Dialogue series: