Topic Selection

The CTAF agenda of technologies scheduled for assessment is established by the Agenda Setting Committee and approved by the CTAF Chair.

The Committee, composed of CTAF members, staff, consultants and medical advisors, considers technologies identified through multiple sources.

Suggested technologies are discussed and ranked by priority based on volume and integrity of supporting data, timeliness, and potential impact.

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Process

The California Technology Assessment Forum follows this process for the evaluation of new and emerging technologies:

1. Search for literature for evidence
2. Analyze data & form recommendation
3. Public meetings to gather input
4. Vote by Panel Members

Assessment Criteria

The California Technology Assessment Forum uses the five criteria listed below to determine if a medical technology improves health outcomes and is safe and effective.

1. The technology must have final approval from the appropriate government regulatory bodies.
2. The scientific evidence must permit conclusions concerning the effectiveness of the technology regarding health outcomes. Evidence about the effectiveness is graded according to the criteria proposed by Cook, et al.
3. The technology must improve the net health outcomes.
4. The technology must be as beneficial as any established alternatives.
5. The improvement must be attainable outside the investigational setting.

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