Health Technology Assessment (HTA) in Resource-Constrained Settings: A Case Study of Ghana

HTA is pivotal in informing healthcare decision-making. It is a tool which helps in ensuring effective resource allocation and optimizing health outcomes. In resource-constrained settings, such as Ghana, the institutionalization, conduct, and uptake of HTA seeks to contribute to maximizing outcomes with limited resources. In Ghana, HTA's institutionalization has been marked by the establishment governance structures, strategies, and processes as well as the integration of HTA principles into health policies. However, the process has faced challenges, including limited expertise and financial constraints. Capacity-building initiatives, such as training programs and international collaborations, have been instrumental in addressing these barriers.

Dr Brian Adu Asare is the Head of Health Technology Assessments (HTA) in Ghana and a Senior Technical Officer at the Pharmacy Directorate of the Ghana Ministry of Health. He also heads the National Drug Information, Research and Monitoring and Evaluation Unit of the Ministry of Health under the Pharmacy Directorate. He joined mainstream health policy in 2008 at the Ghana National Drugs Programme, and currently advices on technical issues in relation to pharmaceuticals in the Ghana Ministry of Health.

He has led and contributed to several technical initiatives in:

* Institutionalization and operationalization of Health Technology Assessment (HTA) in Ghana
* Evidence-based medicine (EBM)
* Pricing systems, Health systems strengthening, Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and health information systems
* Formulation and review of National Medicines Policy
* Development and review of Standard Treatment Guidelines (STG) and Essential Medicines Lists (EML) including COVID-19 treatment guidelines for Ghana.

He currently serves on the:

* National Medicines Selection Committee
* National Medicines Price Committee
* National AMR policy platform
* National Medicines Policy Technical Working Group, among others.