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Technology Evaluation Center Assessment Format

Executive Summary. This section is a summary of the evidence and conclusions that focus on the effectiveness of the technology. The executive summary features a brief description of the assessment objective and discussion and conclusions according to the 5 TEC criteria.

Assessment Objective and Background. These sections include descriptive information needed to understand the clinical context for evaluating the technology. Detail includes:

  • description of the technology;
  • proposed patient indications for the technology;
  • comparative or alternative treatments or interventions; and
  • U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval status.

Methods. This section provides a description of methods used in identifying, collecting, synthesizing, and reviewing the evidence used in evaluating the technology. The description of methods used in identifying and collecting the published literature includes the databases consulted, lists of keywords used in computerized searches, study inclusion criteria, as well as identification of key published evidence from other sources. In addition, methods used in collecting unpublished primary data are described. Both quantitative and qualitative methods are used in synthesizing the evidence. Quantitative methods for analysis of evidence are fully described. Documentation of the Medical Advisory Panel review is given.

Formulation of the Assessment. A clear conceptual framework is laid out for each assessment. Key questions detail the critical clinical and scientific issues are addressed in the technology assessment, including:

  • identification of important health outcomes;
  • definition of outcome measures; and
  • criteria for analyzing the scientific quality of the studies reviewed.

Review of the Evidence. This section provides a comprehensive summary of the body of clinical evidence on the effectiveness of the technology, analyzing the quality of the evidence and synthesizing the study results. Special attention is given to analyzing the evidence on the effectiveness and appropriateness of the technology in the identified patient population.

Discussion and Conclusion. The discussion section synthesizes the body of evidence to answer the key questions and issues regarding the technology as posed by the Assessment. The conclusion presents a judgment with supporting rationale on the effectiveness of the technology according to the 5 TEC criteria. Included are conclusions of:

  • whether the quality of the body of evidence permits conclusions to be drawn regarding the effectiveness of the technology;
  • whether the technology improves clinically significant outcomes; and
  • whether the benefits of the technology outweigh the risks.

References. This section provides complete citations for all studies reviewed in the Assessment. A typical Assessment includes 50-100 references.