Technology assessment: Approach and reimbursement

STUDY DESIGN. Review of technology assessment process for novel spine patient care. OBJECTIVE. To discuss the issues surrounding the introduction of novel technologies for spine patient care. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA. The parties involved in the technology development and assessment process include clinicians, researchers, academic institutions, governmental organizations, and private health care payors. METHODS. Description of the responsibilities and processes of various parties involved in technology assessment. RESULTS. The process for introduction of novel spine technologies is complex and will become more efficient as each party involved increases its understanding of the roles played by all the others. CONCLUSIONS. The technology assessment process involves clinicians, researchers, governmental agencies, and private payors. All must work in concert for the efficient introduction of safe, efficacious, reasonable, and cost-effective novel treatments for spine patients.