bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
OP40 Effect Of Advanced Nursing Practice On Hospital Use For The Elderly
Authors: Trepanier Marc-Olivier , Wassef Maggy , Beauchamp Sylvie 
Published: January 2019

Introduction:Within the local context in Montréal, the elderly population makes up more than 50% of patient hours in emergency department. To meet ministerial targets for length of stay, our health technology assessment unit was requested to conduct an umbrella review to evaluate interventions aimed at reducing health care services use for this population. Within that context, our unit was asked to further evaluate the efficacy of advance practice nurse (APN)-led interventions. The objective of this rapid response was to summarize the scientific literature for APN-led interventions on hospital services use.Methods:An umbrella review using the PRISMA statement was conducted to review the scientific literature. Systematic searches were conducted in five databases, along with a grey literature search. Two reviewers performed the study selection, quality assessment using the ROBIS, and data extraction. The primary studies within the selected systematic reviews were extracted by two reviewers and a meta-analysis was conducted to analyze the efficacy of APN-involved in discharge planning and transitional care.Results:From the twenty-seven systematic reviews identified in the literature search, four reported data on APN-led interventions. In all, sixteen primary studies were included in the four systematic reviews. While most studies focused on transitional care, there was heterogeneity in the components of the interventions implemented. At six months post-discharge, a reduction of forty-one percent in relative risk of readmission was observed with APN-led discharge planning and transitional care with patient education, follow-up and services coordination. Studies with fewer components reported less significant results than studies with comprehensive discharge planning and transitional care. The few APN-led primary care studies identified in the systematic reviews reported inconsistent results.Conclusions:APN-led comprehensive discharge planning and transitional care can reduce hospital readmission rate. Several components were identified and should be considered in the discharge planning and transitional care.
OP45 HTA Of A Pediatric Biplanar Low-Dose X-Ray Imaging System
Authors: Andellini Martina , Faggiano Francesco , di Mauro Roxana , Derrico Pietro , Ritrovato Matteo 
Published: January 2019

Introduction:Patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis frequently receive X-ray imaging at diagnosis and subsequent follow monitoring. To achieve the ALARA concept of radiation dose, a biplanar low-dose X-ray system (BLDS) has been proposed. The aim of the study is to gather evidence on safety, accuracy and overall effectiveness of a BLDS compared with CT scanning, in a pediatric population, in order to support the final decision on possible acquisition of such innovative diagnostic system.Methods:The new method Decision-oriented HTA (DoHTA) was applied to carefully assess the diagnostic technology. It was developed starting from the EUnetHTA Core Model® integrated with the analytic hierarchy process in order to identify all the relevant assessment aspects of the technology involved, identified from scientific literature, experts’ judgments and specific context analysis of Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital. A weight was associated to each assessment element and the alternatives’ ranking was defined.Results:This innovative system provides orthopedic images in standing or sitting position, being able to examine the spine and lower limbs under normal weight-bearing conditions. This system is recommended for particular clinical indications as scoliosis and other congenital deformities of the spine. It is able to acquire simultaneous posteroanterior and lateral images in a single scan without vertical distortion and with lower radiation exposure than CT scanning. 2D images acquired can be combined to obtain a 3D reconstruction scanning based on a semi-automated statistical model.Conclusions:The major advantages of BLDS are the relatively low dose of radiation and the possibility of obtaining a 3D reconstruction of the bones. Our preliminary results show that data on the clinical effectiveness are limited but the technical advancements of BLDS appear promising in terms of patient management and patient health outcomes associated with its use.
OP56 Rehabilitation Of Memory In Brain Injury: A Cost-Utility Analysis
Authors: Harris Shaun , Fitzsimmons Deborah , das Nair Roshan , Bradshaw Lucy 
Published: January 2019

Introduction:People with traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) commonly report memory impairments which are persistent, debilitating, and reduce quality of life. As part of the Rehabilitation of Memory in Brain Injury trial, a cost-effectiveness analysis was undertaken to examine the comparative costs and effects of a group memory rehabilitation program for people with TBI.Methods:Individual-level cost and outcome data were collected. Patients were randomized to usual care (n=157) or usual care plus memory rehabilitation (n=171). The primary outcome for the economic analysis was the EuroQol-5D quality of life score at 12 months. A UK NHS costing perspective was used. Missing data was addressed by multiple imputation. One-way sensitivity analyses examined the impact of varying different parameters, and the impact of available cases, on base case findings whilst non-parametric bootstrapping examined joint uncertainty.Results:At 12 months, the intervention was GBP 26.89 (USD 35.76) (SE 249.15) cheaper than usual care; but this difference was statistically non-significant (p=0.914). At 12 months, a QALY loss of −0.007 was observed in the intervention group confidence interval (95% CI: −0.025–0.012) and a QALY gain seen in the usual care group 0.004 (95% CI: -0.017–0.025). This difference was not statistically significant (p=0.442). The base case analysis gave an ICER of GBP 2,445 (USD 3,252) reflecting that the intervention was less effective and less costly compared to usual care. Sensitivity analyses illustrated considerable uncertainty. When joint uncertainty was examined, the probability of the intervention being cost-effective at a willingness-to-pay threshold of GBP 20,000 per QALY gain was 29 percent and 24 percent at GBP 30,000.Conclusions:Our cost-utility analysis indicates that memory rehabilitation was cheaper but less effective than usual care but these findings must be interpreted in the light of small statistically non–significant differences and considerable uncertainty was evident. The ReMemBrIn intervention is unlikely to be considered cost-effective for people with TBI.
OP65 Genomics: From Horizon Scanning To National Health Policy
Authors: Fennessy Paul , Kearney Brendon , Mundy Linda , Howard Margaret 
Published: January 2019

Introduction:Technology advances have resulted in cheaper and quicker genomic sequencing (panels, exomes, whole genomes). Uptake into clinical practice has been rapid despite limited consideration of workforce, patient safety, consent, practice standards, guidelines and cost benefit. AUD 150M (USD 113M) has been independently allocated to genomic initiatives by Australian state and federal governments that don't reflect a national approach to genomics.Methods:Modified horizon scanning (HS) methodology identified issues around genomic sequencing to be considered by governments regarding their support, or otherwise, before appropriate implementation and diffusion into local healthcare systems. A national jurisdictional advisory group was subsequently established that undertook extensive stakeholder consultation across Australia, including written submissions, over a four-month period.Results:HS identified that genomic sequencing is diffusing rapidly through the health system and flagged issues of pressing concern, including: workforce requirements; education, training and literacy for the medical workforce and community; infrastructure; data; and ethical, legal and social implications (ELSI). HealthPACT recommended a national coordinated approach to policy development across jurisdictional boundaries to ensure appropriate adoption of genomics. Stakeholder consultation confirmed overwhelming support for greater national coordination of the application of genomic knowledge in healthcare. Five strategic priorities were developed to support appropriate integration of genomics into health care for Australians: person-centered approach; workforce; financing; services; and, data. Three principles underpin strategic priorities: i) application of genomic knowledge is ethically, legally and socially responsible and community trust is promoted; ii) access and equity are promoted for vulnerable populations; and, iii) application of genomic knowledge to health care is supported and informed by evidence and research.Conclusions:HS identified significant policy, workforce, funding and sustainability issues already facing state and territory governments that would, in time, face the federal government. The National Health Genomics Policy Framework outlines an agreed high-level national approach to policy, regulatory and investment decision-making for genomics and was approved by all Australian health Ministers in November 2017.
OP72 Added Value Of Using Individual Patient Data Meta-analysis
Authors: Guo Bing , Moga Carmen 
Published: January 2019

Introduction:Although individual patient data meta-analysis (IPD MA) is considered the gold standard of systematic reviews (SRs), a recent International Network of Agencies for Health Technology Assessment survey indicates that IPD MA is not frequently included in a health technology assessment (HTA), or conducted by HTA researchers. The objective of this presentation is to describe our first experience with including an IPD MA in a HTA report, discuss the added value for an evidence-based decision-making process, and advocate for expanding work in this field.Methods:An overview of SRs on endovascular therapy for acute ischemic stroke included one IPD MA and six study-level SRs/MAs. Methodological quality was appraised by two reviewers independently using the tool recommended by the Cochrane IPD MA working group for the IPD MA, and the AMSTAR (A MeaSurement Tool to Assess systematic Reviews) for the study-level reviews. Pooled results from subgroup analyses based on access to primary patient data were compared to those reported in SRs that conducted subgroup analyses based on the published data to identify patients or clinical factors that would impact clinical outcomes.Results:The overall findings were similar between the IPD MA and other SRs/MAs. However, when compared to aggregated data used in study-level SRs/MAs, subgroup analyses based on patient data allowed for adjustment of confounders, multiple categories within a subgroup, standardization of outcomes across trials, and detailed data checking. Larger sample sizes of each pre-defined subgroup permitted for more precise estimates of treatment effects. A number of methodological issues in the IPD MA were identified; particularly, no assessment of risk of bias of included trials was conducted.Conclusions:Access to original patient data is demanding and conducting IPD MA requires extensive resources. The advantages of having an improved quality analysis, an appropriate quantification of the effects in the analyzed subgroups, and precision of results may justify additional efforts, and may increase confidence in the decision-making process.
OP75 Tailoring Review Methods: Scope, Timescale And Needs Of Commissioners
Authors: Cooper Katy , Harnan Susan , Preston Louise , Campbell Fiona , Chatters Robin , Kaltenthaler Eva , Pandor Abdullah 
Published: January 2019

Introduction:Commissioners of systematic reviews have differing requirements in terms of breadth of scope, level of analysis required, and timescales available. Planning a review requires consideration of the trade-off between these elements. This applies to both “rapid” reviews and “traditional” reviews with a broad or complex scope.Methods:Approaches for tailoring review methods to commissioner requirements are described. These will be illustrated via case studies of reviews conducted for the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Health Technology Assessment (HTA) and Health Services & Delivery Research (HS&DR) programs and other organizations.Results:An initial step is to discuss with commissioners the trade-off between timescales/resource available, breadth of review scope, and level of analysis; for example, broad overview of many studies or in-depth analysis of a narrower set. Where the evidence base is unknown, one option is to undertake an initial mapping review to assess the volume and type of evidence available. This may assist in refining the selection criteria for the main review, to prioritize the most relevant evidence. In complex reviews, a further option is to develop a conceptual model (logic model) with input from commissioners and experts, to help identify factors which may influence outcomes. This can enable design of focused mini-reviews (not necessarily exhaustive) around each factor. These methodological approaches will be illustrated through three case studies including an HTA on cannabis cessation (trade-off of breadth versus depth); a review of yoga and health (initial mapping to refine selection criteria); and a rapid review of congenital heart disease services (conceptual model to identify areas for focused reviews).Conclusions:Different approaches may enable discussion with review commissioners around the trade-off between scope, methods and timescales, in order to tailor the review method to best meet commissioner requirements within the timescales available.
OP78 Code Of Ethics: Missing Cord In The Evidence-To-Action Connection?
Authors: Nyamadzawo Evidence 
Published: January 2019

Introduction:Ethics is a set of moral principles that guide our behavior when it affects others. HTAi acknowledges the fundamental values of “service, collaboration, professionalism and integrity, transparency, accountability”. Ethical conduct balances self-interest with consequences of that behavior for others. Unethical behavior has serious personal consequences and in the case of HTA practitioners it can damage stakeholder trust and thereby hinder implementation of evidence by policy makers. Compliance with regulation alone may not suffice in building stakeholder confidence. There is need for individuals and agencies to develop a ‘culture of integrity’ at all levels in the HTA process above and beyond compliance with the law. A strong ethical culture will foster trust of stakeholders, strengthen collaboration, improve implementation of recommendations and benefit society. This is the importance of developing a code of ethics to guide conduct and detail standards of professional practice expected of HTA practitioners affiliated to HTAi and related agencies.Methods:I will argue for the development of a detailed code of ethics for HTAi and related agencies. To do this, I will explain how the code of ethics gives guidance and informs the users (HTA practitioners), and how they can guide stakeholders in the HTA processes. The public relations benefits of a code of ethics will also be discussed. I will explain why having a mere list of seven words as “values” is not sufficient guidance to professionals with diverse backgrounds who are collaborating in a multidisciplinary team.Results:The role of a code of ethics in helping professionals to choose their actions well is an effective way to integrate ethics in HTA, safeguard the integrity of HTA processes, and improve evidence implementation by stakeholders.Conclusions:HTAi should develop a detailed code of ethics for its membership.
OP92 Non-Opioid Therapy For Pain Management – Health Technology Assessment In A Time Of Crisis
Authors: Mann Janice , Mulla Sohail , Pant Sirjana 
Published: January 2019

Introduction:North America is facing a public health epidemic – the opioid crisis – part of which is attributed to the inappropriate use of opioids in pain management. As such, the 2017 Canadian Guideline for Opioids for Chronic Non-Cancer Pain recommends optimizing non-opioid pharmacotherapy or non-pharmacological therapy to treat chronic pain, before a trial of opioids. However, the Guideline itself is not designed to provide evidence on the effectiveness of these non-opioid alternatives, leaving a gap for those attempting to put the recommendation into practice.Methods:In collaboration with its partners, including clinicians and policymakers, the Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies (CADTH) identified the gaps in evidence, and developed an action plan to bridge the evidence gaps to support the optimization of non-opioid alternatives in pain management.Results:Since the release of the Guideline, CADTH produced over 20 Rapid Response reports that synthesize and appraise evidence on non-opioid alternatives in the management of a wide range of pain, both acute and chronic. Additionally, CADTH has also reviewed evidence on multidisciplinary pain treatment programs, and is developing environmental scan reports on the availability and access to non-pharmacological treatments for pain in Canada, and on drugs for emerging non-opioid pain. Further, CADTH developed knowledge mobilization tools based on the evidence reviews. The evidence reviews and tools are used as a resource by CADTH partners, including the Coalition of Safe and Effective Pain Management and McMaster University National Pain Center.Conclusions:This presentation will discuss the role of HTA and CADTH to fill the gaps in evidence for a crucial clinical practice guideline recommendation in a time of public health crisis, and help put the evidence into action. It will present the evidence synthesized by CADTH on various non-opioid alternatives for pain management, while highlighting the remaining gaps in evidence. Understanding the evidence on non-opioid alternatives will inform clinical and policy decisions and potentially reduce inappropriate use of opioids in pain management.
OP105 Disinvestment Toolkit: Patients Involvement In Disinvestment Activities
Authors: Wale Janney , Bond Ken , Wortley Sally , Martin Janet , Godman Brian , Gutiérrez-Ibarluzea Iñaki 
Published: January 2019

Introduction:Patients are the people who, with their informed consent, receive medical interventions. It is important, therefore, that patients have an understanding of interventions and their potential as a treatment for their condition. Patients are becoming more informed about their health care and the treatments that are available to them. At a population level, the potential benefits and harms of treatments need to be regularly assessed. This is part of healthcare decision making at a policy level about what treatments are publically available. As technology develops and old methods are replaced by new and evidence-based interventions and procedures, healthcare payers look to streamline their payment schedules and disinvest in old technologies and procedures. Some users of health care are reluctant to let go of outmoded methods, so disinvestment is best achieved through transparent processes. Successful engagement with key stakeholders of health care, engaging with payers, health service administrators, clinicians and patients, can facilitate implementation of disinvestment processes.Methods:To assist in this process, Health Technology Assessment International (HTAi) Interest Groups and EuroScan have come together to develop the following key points to consider in the involvement and engagement of clinicians, patients, and the public in the disinvestment of services and technologies.Results:The best time to involve clinicians and patient representatives is right at the beginning of the process. Clinicians and patients can make valuable contributions as advisory committee members. The disinvestment processes may be led by clinicians, payers, or independent organizations. This will likely influence commitment of clinicians to the process.Conclusions:Broader consultation with clinicians, patients and the public in the development and consideration of draft reports and recommendations can increase the transparency of the disinvestment process. Consultation is an important means of obtaining buy in. Feedback needs to be seen as taken seriously, and explanations given for any changes made or not made to the report and its recommendations.
OP114 The Public's Role In Understanding The Value Of Health Technologies
Authors: Stafinski Tania , Street Jackie , Menon Devidas 
Published: January 2019

Introduction:Increasingly, health technology assessment (HTA) organizations have instituted mechanisms for involving patients in assessment and review processes. The reasons are obvious—to understand the “patient experience” with a disease and to ensure that patient perspectives are considered during deliberations about the value of new treatments. More recently there have been efforts to engage the public in HTAs and HTA-informed decision-making processes. However, the goals of these efforts have not been well articulated. This may be attributable to the lack of a shared definition of “the public”. The objective of this study was to develop a common understanding of the term “the public” within the context of HTA.Methods:The following were conducted: a survey of HTA organizations; a systematic review; consultation with Health Technology Assessment international's Special Interest Group on Patient and Citizen Involvement; and a workshop comprising representatives from patient organizations, industry, and HTA bodies in Canada.Results:In many HTA processes, the terms “public” and “patients” are synonymous. Definitions found in scholarly articles vary and depend on the rationale for involving the public in a particular issue. Through consultations it became clear that, in the context of HTA, the definition depends on understanding what is missing from current deliberations around the value of new health technologies. There was consensus among workshop participants that: (i) “patients” and “the public” are not the same; (ii) the role of the public may be to ensure societal values are reflected in HTAs and HTA-informed decision-making processes (e.g. serving an audit function); and (iii) a legitimate definition of “the public” could be: “A non-aligned community member with no commercial or professional interest in the HTA process who is not a patient or member of a stakeholder group”.Conclusions:Consensus on the use of the terms “patient” and “public” will support rigorous, evidence-based public and patient engagement in HTA. The proposed definition indicates a way forward in this debate.