Horizon scanning is the process
which allows the identification of new and emerging medical products by
systematic analysis of pipeline health technologies, typically before they
reach the market, and before the HTA process. Early identification of new
medicines enables the assessment of their potential relevance and impact on the
healthcare system, as well as the identification of possible threats and
opportunities, thus allowing for pro-active policymaking better budgetary
planning in the healthcare system.
A horizon scanning system was
set up within the Pharmaceutical Policy and EU Affairs Unit at the Directorate
for Pharmaceutical Affairs in 2020 with the aim of performing horizon scanning
activities within the context of pharmaceutical policy. The horizon scanning
system at DPA will be used to improve strategic and financial planning and
decision-making by providing timely, early intelligence on new
medicines which are not yet licensed.
After receiving and evaluating a
request for horizon scanning the urgency of the request is determined and a
time-frame for a reply is decided upon. Information is then gathered from a
number of publicly available sources including horizon scanning information
from other EU member states, the European Medical Agency and online
pharmaceutical databases. Information may also be submitted directly by
pharmaceutical industry stakeholders. The gathered information is
then compiled into a report and relevant data is stored in a database which
enables quick filtering and sorting of data. The horizon scanning system can
provide information on pharmacological classification, indications,
epidemiology and estimated patient numbers, treatment alternatives, expected
impact on the National Health Service, EU orphan drug status, expected
placement in clinical guidelines, research development phase and expected
launch period amongst other things.
For further information please
contact us on dpa.strategyandpolicy@gov.mt