The Irish Health Service (HSE) Health Technology Assessment Group (HTAG) aims to maximise the impact of its work by collaborating with HSE Procurement, formalised through an evidence-based Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). This study aims to inform the MOU.

A sequential mixed-methods study design was used. A rapid review of the literature identified no substantive body of evidence on collaboration between independent national health technology assessment (HTA) and procurement bodies. Personnel involved in HTA or procurement were invited by email to complete a survey, take part in an interview, or both. The quantitative and qualitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis, respectively. Findings were integrated using a conceptual framework that examined the complementarity of HTA and procurement processes relevant to an MOU.

Thirteen surveys were completed (response rate was 13 percent). Eleven interviews (five Ireland, two Canada, three UK, one New Zealand) were conducted between August and November, 2017. No formalised collaboration between independent national HTA and procurement bodies was identified. However in New Zealand, HTA and procurement are an integrated function of the Pharmaceutical Management Agency (PHARMAC). In other jurisdictions, successful ad hoc collaborations occurred where there was a clear need expressed by Procurement for additional evidence required for decision-making, and where HTA personnel tailored their research approaches accordingly. Key themes to successful collaboration were relationships, communication, clear roles, rigorous research and ‘system support’. Good individual relationships and ready access/communication promoted successful outcomes. Successful outcomes included improved clinical practice, and major cost savings. Collaboration may be focussed on: innovative or established devices; specific types of HTA/research products; specific categories/specialties; or specific procurement departments.

All participants considered collaboration to be beneficial but requiring good relationships and ‘system support’. Furthermore, successful collaboration requires clarity regarding the purpose, parties involved, their roles, responsibilities, modes of communication, information to be shared, and the expected outcomes.