The Department of Health (DoH) in Abu Dhabi has released comprehensive Health Technology Assessment (HTA) guidelines to guide the adoption, reimbursement, and governance of emerging health technologies. These guidelines aim to ensure that costly and innovative technologies—such as gene therapies, specialized biologics, and advanced medical devices—are clinically effective, safe, and financially sustainable within the local healthcare system. The framework establishes clear criteria for HTA, including clinical evaluations based on trial and real-world data, budget impact analysis, and cost-effectiveness studies, particularly for products with high projected costs or usage.
By streamlining the assessment process, the DoH seeks to balance the introduction of cutting-edge treatments with the need for cost containment and equitable access. The guidelines also set exclusions for low-cost products, generics, and interventions lacking efficacy data, which will not require HTA for reimbursement. This structured approach reflects Abu Dhabi’s commitment to evidence-based health investments and sustainable healthcare system management.