PMU16 Assessing Health Technologies in EARLY Detection of Primary Immunodeficiency Diseases: A Case Study of Evidence-Based VALUE Framework in RARE Diseases

Abstract

Objectives: Develop the BDP through a technically sound and broadly consultative process. Methods: The process of developing the BDP was started with the drafting of a technical note discussing the rationale, contents and proposed approach for its development. This was followed by a broad consultation of stakeholders representing PhilHealth members, providers, the Department of Health, members from the academe and research community, and development partners. Results: There was consensus that the introduction of benefits under UHC will use criteria such as legal mandates, burden of disease, advances in technology, value for money and fund viability, among others. Appropriate decision rules will have to be developed to make use of these criteria in decision-making. In addition, the stakeholders agreed on a formal and explicit process in benefit development. Making the process explicit improves transparency in the benefit development process where interests of various stakeholders can be managed and operational considerations can be flagged. Both members and providers expressed strong preference to be involved in the benefit development process at its various stages. The role of the Health Technology Assessment Council (HTAC) also needs to be defined as new benefits can only be introduced if there is positive recommendation. Conclusions: PhilHealth is expected to complete its BDP soon. Other countries in similar stages of implementing UHC may want to study how an explicit benefit development process can be developed and implemented.