2026/01/01 by Liza van Mun, Wietske Kievit, Wija Oortwijn
paper · doi:10.1017/s0266462326103808
Abstract Objectives The European Union health technology assessment (HTA) regulation increases pressure on European HTA organizations’ capacity and new domains of expertise continue to emerge quickly in the HTA field. Therefore, this study aimed to identify emerging competencies described in the literature and to update and verify an existing HTA competency framework, encompassing both process-related and domain-specific expertise for conducting HTA. Methods Using a scoping review approach, PubMed, Embase, PsycINFO, ERIC, CINAHL, and Web of Science were searched from 1 January 2018 until 13 May 2024. The websites of HTA-related societies were searched on 22 April 2024. Documents describing competencies for HTA professionals were included. Deductive content analysis of the identified competencies was performed, utilizing the competencies from the original framework. Results A total of nineteen documents were included, consisting of six competency frameworks, one handbook, and twelve scientific articles. The identified competencies from these documents mapped appropriately to the original competency framework. New competencies within existing domains that emerged were related to organizational sustainability, patient and public involvement, real-world data, interpreting and developing HTA reports, and stakeholder identification. In addition, three new competency domains were identified, which were artificial intelligence use for HTA, environmental aspects, and performance and achievements. Conclusions The newly identified competencies and competency domains highlight emerging areas of expertise for HTA professionals and need to be added to the original competency framework. An updated competency framework can support capacity building efforts and the development of training programs to ensure that HTA professionals are well-equipped to address current healthcare challenges.