A Theory of Constraints Approach to Health Technology Assessment

Applying assessment methods commonly used in healthcare, such as randomized controlled trials (RCT) and financial analysis, often proves challenging in health technology assessment (HTA). Procurement and implementation of process improving information and communication technology (ICT) is traditionally sought to be based on financial estimates. These are often difficult to produce and may be misleading. There is a need for a more pragmatic managerial solution. This paper suggests an alternative approach, based on the theory of constraints (TOC), arguing that the primary focus of technology assessment should be on technologies´ ability to break or alleviate organizational constraints, in order to increase throughput rather than reduce cost. Ultimately the latter will become as a consequence of the former. This paper presents a conceptual contribution. The suggested approach is illustrated through a case study of a home care unit.