The Medical Technologies Evaluation Programme (MTEP) focuses on the evaluation of new or innovative medical technologies (including devices and diagnostics). The programme aims to complement the existing technology appraisal programme by promoting the adoption of cost-effective medical technologies. Three appraisals have been completed to date: SeQuent Please balloon catheter for use in coronary artery surgery; CardioQ-ODM oesophageal Doppler monitor to assess fluid balance during surgery; and the moorLDI2-BI laser doppler blood flow imaging system to assess the severity of burns.
The methods guide for MTEP has recently been published following consultation. They describe a notably different approach to evaluation from the technology appraisal methods that have been widely adopted by health economists (and the NICE Diagnostics Assessment Programme). For example, out goes cost-effectiveness analysis and QALYs, and in comes cost-consequences analysis. Value of information analysis remains, although how this can be implemented within a non-QALY cost-consequences analysis framework is unclear.
Time will tell whether this more flexibile approach is successful in identifying cost-effective technologies.
