Redefining value assessment and healthcare funding priorities for medicines: the journey to patient-centric decision making in APAC - a systematic literature review

Abstract

Objectives This study explored patient involvement in healthcare decision-making in the Asia Pacific region (APAC) by identifying roles and factors influencing differences between healthcare systems. Proposed recommendations to enhance patient engagement were made. Methods This systematic literature review was conducted using studies from Australia, China, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, the Philippines, South Korea, Singapore, Taiwan, and Thailand. Studies were included if they provided data on patient involvement in health technology assessment (HTA) and/or funding decisions for medicines. Extracted data were scored according to eleven parameters adapted from the National Health Council (NHC) rubric, which assessed the level of patient involvement in healthcare system decision-making. Results We identified 159 records between 2018 and 2022, including methodology guidelines from Government websites. Most mentioned parameters were patient partnership, patient-reported outcome, and mechanism to incorporate patient input. Limited information was available on diversity and patient-centered data sources. Tools for collecting patient experience included quality-of-life questionnaires, focus groups, interviews, and surveys, with feedback options like structured templates, videos, and public sessions. Beyond input in assessment process, involvement of patients in decision-making phase has evolved within HTA bodies over time with considerable variation. Few APAC healthcare systems involve patients in the appraisal process as members of the recommendation or decision-making committee. Conclusions The findings indicate that while patient involvement in pharmaceutical reimbursement decisions exists, improvements are needed. Effective integration of patient input requires transparency, education, and resource planning. This study establishes a baseline to track progress and assess the long-term impact of patient involvement.