The evidence is culled from published peer- reviewed literature, studies presented at major professional meetings, and from scientific forums periodically convened by TEC that enable researchers to present their most current findings on important new technologies. The assessments are reviewed by our expert Medicare Advisory Panel which approves, revises, or reverses the staff's recommendations based on the quality of the scientific evidence. The assessments developed by TEC are scientific opinions designed to provide information to those who deliver and manage medical care. The TEC process has been designed to be a model objective, science-based assessment of clinical effectiveness without regard to cost. Use of TEC assessments by Blue Cross and Blue Shield Plans and other payers is voluntary.
TEC assessments are one of many resources used in the formulation of coverage policies.
Many health plans consider new technologies that do not meet the TEC criteria or other standards of clinical effectiveness to be investigational and not eligible for coverage. Recently, TEC has begun a cost-effectiveness analysis initiative, working in collaboration with Alan Garber, M.D., Ph.D., of Stanford University. TEC issues one to two cost-effectiveness analyses each year which are additional to the TEC assessments that focus on clinical effectiveness alone. For example, cost-effectiveness analysis helps us understand the cost implications for the population of adopting a new technology with a small increase in effectiveness and a large increase in cost. The Evidence-based Practice Program makes an important contribution to meeting the most pressing issues in technology assessment.