NECA was pleased to attend “Unfiltered: Personal Reflections on HTA and Consumer Engagement” with Jo Watson on Thursday 4 December. The event brought together patient organisations, industry colleagues and consumer advocates for an open conversation about the shifting Health Technology Assessment (HTA) environment.
Jo reflected on a year marked by system change, departmental pressures and evolving committee structures, noting the growing complexity for patient groups and the importance of staying aligned on shared priorities and collaboration.
Consumer input was a central theme, with Jo emphasising how deeply patient perspectives are now embedded across HTA processes. Attendees also explored practical challenges around transparency, feedback pathways and how smaller organisations can participate effectively with limited resources.
Broader system pressures, including government efficiency measures and their potential impact on assessment timelines, were also discussed. The group reflected on the need for policy settings that continue to support timely and equitable access to medicines and diagnostics within Australia’s national medicines framework.
NECA welcomed the chance to join this valuable end-of-year discussion and thanks the organisers for fostering such constructive dialogue at a pivotal time for HTA and health reform.
