OP50 Health Equity Considerations In HTA: A Case Example Of Prenatal Screening

Introduction The Washington Health Technology Assessment (HTA) program has been guiding coverage decisions in the state since 2007. Center for Evidence-based Policy works with to develop evidence-based HTA reports. In 2020, we presented an on cell-free DNA prenatal screening chromosomal aneuploidies. committee’s discussion, questions around access tests and care more generally were raised. We present a case study of how health equities considered development criteria. Methods conducted using standard systematic review methodologies. Outcomes focused test accuracy impact screening. did not look evidence or people’s experience reviewed meeting transcript identify issues equity they influenced final decision. Results During discussion evidence, committee raised concerns equitable screening, including: direct costs person; full range including ultrasound; and, uptake Based findings from report, expert testimony, public comment, voted cover aneuploidies unconditionally. Conclusions is increasingly important healthcare decision-making. Decision makers should consider decision may reduce inequities it inadvertently increase existing inequities. also need understand context within which will be implemented. Consideration can addressed number ways, example through patient use contextual knowledge testimony. Regardless method, remain transparent considerations their determination.