Role of the Patient‘s Viewpoint in Health Technologies Assessment in Bulgaria

Abstract

Abstract Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine the role of the patient’s point of view when assessing health technologies as well as the patients’ willingness to participate in this process in our country. Methods: A pilot study included 165 patients across Bulgaria recruited from December 2019 to March 2020. Appropriate descriptive and statistical methods were used. Results: The patient’s point of view was an essential element in HTA. Patients in Bulgaria have the desire and willingness to share their personal experience with institutions, but insufficient knowledge of the process hinders their full participation in HTA. Our results showed that the need for higher awareness in the field and familiarity with HTA methodology are critical factors for the inclusion of patients in the HTA procedures in Bulgaria. Conclusion: This study was one of the few ones focused on the impact of patient participation in HTA in Bulgaria. The patient’s role in the development of medical technology must be recognized and considered a critical factor in the future of HTA.