The burden of CAP and HAP is high. Results varied between the three countries, likely due to differences in socio-economic conditions, health system differences, and ICD-coding practices.

In the region under discussion, one of the priority areas that the different regulatory agencies would benefit from is human resource development to facilitate the process of evidence based assessment of health technologies. Higher budgetary allocation and stronger legislation is also needed along with interagency and international coordination and cooperation to harmonize.

Objectives:The aim of this study was to discuss the development of health technology assessment (HTA) in the Philippines. Methods: A new national health insurance program began to be implemented in the Philippines in 1995 after passage of the Health Insurance Act. Results: The program is known as the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth). HTA was introduced to the Philippines in 1998. PhilHealth began to develop an HTA program subsequently. Conclusions: As a developing country struggling to provide comprehensive health care to all citizens, PhilHealth sees HTA as an essential part of assuring that only effective and cost-effective care is provided for the public sector.

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