Health Technology Assessment in Portugal: health policies, methodologies and emerging challenges

Abstract

Portugal is a European country with a high Human Development Index (HDI) and extensive health system coverage. In line with the recommendations of the World Health Organization, Portugal regulates drug prices to ensure better access with financial sustainability. To this aim, health technology assessment is recognized as an essential tool for making informed financing decisions. In consonance with the challenges faced by other countries in this domain in the last few years, the methodologies and criteria used in the evaluation of different health technologies have been put to the test. This article presents an overview of the Portuguese health system and the technology assessment system regarding the latest main implemented policies also on the price regulation system, including the most recent challenges faced in this field.