Authors:
Claudia Georgieva
;
Antonia Yanakieva
and
Alexandrina Vodenicharova
Affiliation:
Department of Health Technology Assessment, Faculty of Public Health, Medical University - Sofia, Bulgaria, Bulgaria
Keyword(s):
Patients, Health Technology Assessment, Sustainable Development, Health System.
Abstract:
Background: Several countries worldwide are developing policies aimed at patient participation in healthcare
as a critical element for sustainable development in the field. HTA is an essential part of sustainable
development strategies, and patient involvement as an expert is a mechanism for ensuring transparent, fair,
and equitable healthcare. Aim: The study aims to determine the readiness of patients and patient organizations
in Bulgaria to be included in the HTA process and outline the challenges for their implementation. Materials
and Methods: The study was based on two questionnaires conducted from September 2019 - May 2020. They
involved 563 patients and 53 patient organizations in the Republic of Bulgaria. Various analytical approaches
have been applied for data processing. Results: Patients in Bulgaria are willing to participate in the HTA
process. The survey proves that 67.1% of the respondents would participate in training organized for them.
64.2% would meet with
representatives of the HTA institution. 61.2% are willing to assist in the preparation
of HTA strategies and work plans. The main challenge for implementing patients in the process is the low
level of competence in the field, which does not allow equal participation in HTA. For this purpose, it is
necessary to conduct training campaigns and promote the process among patients in our country and allocate
funds to support the inclusion of patients in HTA. Conclusions: Stimulating close cooperation between
patients, HTA institutions, manufacturers, and users of health technologies is the basis for the modern health
system's sustainable development.
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