Universal health coverage in India and health technology assessment: current status and the way forward

In India, there is a renewed emphasis on Universal Health Coverage (UHC). Alongside this, Health Technology Assessment (HTA) is an important tool for advancing UHC. The development and application of HTA in India, including capacity building and establishing institutional mechanisms. We emphasized using the HTA approach within two components of the Ayushman Bharat programme, and the section concludes with lessons learned and the next steps. The UHC has increased the importance of selecting and implementing effective technologies and interventions within national health systems, particularly in the context of limited resources. To maximize the use of limited resources and produce reliable scientific assessments, developing and enhancing national capacity must be based on established best practices, information exchange between different sectors, and collaborative approaches. A more potent mechanism and capacity for HTA in India would accelerate the country's progress toward UHC.

Automated summary

In India, there is a renewed focus on Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and Health Technology Assessment (HTA) as an important tool for advancing UHC. The development and application of HTA in India, including capacity building and establishment of institutional mechanisms, are emphasized. Lessons learned and future steps are discussed within the context of utilizing HTA approach in the Ayushman Bharat program. The importance of selecting and implementing effective technologies and interventions within national health systems, given limited resources, highlights the need for enhanced national capacity, information exchange, and collaborative approaches.