India and Sri Lanka Strengthen Health Technology Assessment Cooperation

A five-day workshop focusing on Health Technology Assessment (HTA) commenced on February 10, 2024, at the Sushma Swaraj Bhawan in New Delhi. This initiative marks a significant step in the collaborative healthcare efforts between India and Sri Lanka. The event aims to enhance bilateral cooperation in healthcare technology evaluation, highlighting India’s commitment to advancing regional health initiatives.

The workshop is organized by the Department of Health Research (DHR) under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, in partnership with the Ministry of External Affairs. Its primary goal is to establish a strategic framework for the development and institutionalization of HTA in Sri Lanka. Senior officials from both countries have emphasized the importance of this knowledge exchange in strengthening healthcare systems.

During the inaugural session, Dr. Rajiv Bahl, Secretary of DHR and Director General of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), welcomed the delegates. He underscored the collaborative spirit of the workshop, which is designed to share expertise and best practices in health technology assessment.

In her remarks, Anu Nagar, Additional Secretary of DHR, highlighted the successful impact of HTAIn on India’s healthcare landscape. She expressed optimism that the insights gained from this workshop will support the effective implementation of HTA principles in Sri Lanka. The official statement from the ministry noted that HTAIn plays a crucial role in evaluating healthcare technologies, ensuring that health interventions are both cost-effective and based on solid evidence.

The workshop will address a variety of subjects, including HTA institutional frameworks, governance, methodologies, pricing, and procurement decisions. By focusing on these areas, the initiative aims to identify collaborative opportunities to strengthen HTA capacities and systems in both India and Sri Lanka.

To facilitate informed decision-making in healthcare, the Indian government has established HTAIn under the DHR. This organization is tasked with collecting and generating evidence regarding the clinical effectiveness, cost-effectiveness, and safety of various health technologies, including medicines, devices, and healthcare programs. The focus on evidence-based interventions is expected to enhance the quality and accessibility of health services in both countries.

As the workshop progresses, participants will engage in discussions and activities designed to build a sustainable framework for HTA in Sri Lanka. This collaboration is expected to lead to more effective healthcare delivery and improved health outcomes for populations in both nations.

The five-day event represents a pivotal moment in health diplomacy and reflects the growing partnership between India and Sri Lanka in addressing regional health challenges. Through this knowledge exchange, both countries aim to foster a culture of evidence-based healthcare, ultimately benefiting their citizens.