In March 2017, CADTH released the fourth edition of the Guidelines for the Economic Evaluations of Health Technologies. As part of the update a few notable changes were made to topics such as discount rate, target population, modeling, effectiveness, analysis, and the theoretical foundations for the Guidelines. In this presentation we will describe: the implementation of the Guidelines; approaches taken to facilitate the adoption of the Guideline statements; and the tools provided to assist users and doers in using cost-effectiveness information in healthcare decision making.

Given some of the changes made to the Guidelines, CADTH identified the need to engage stakeholders early in preparation for the release of the fourth edition. Feedback on topics was sought from various stakeholders (researchers in the field, industry, patient groups, and decision makers) throughout the process. Also, suggestions for tools to support the understanding and implementation of the Guidelines were noted by CADTH. To further support use of the Guidelines, CADTH committed to undertake a number of activities including: workshops for decision makers and researchers; worked examples to illustrate the approaches; and development of tools to assist in the use of recommended methods. Updates to align drug submission guidance with the Guidelines are ongoing.

The final version of the Guidelines was greatly influenced by the stakeholder feedback received, with a focus on greater clarity. Whilst efforts to increase acceptance and adoption of the guidelines are ongoing, we present preliminary findings with respect to engagement with stakeholders and adoption of new guidance in drug submissions.

The plan to engage stakeholders continues to be effective. As such, there has been general acceptance of the changes and an interest in education and tools to assist with implementation of the Guidelines.