The Heads of HTA Agencies Group (HAG) met virtually on 15 April 2026 to agree on its top priorities for the remainder of 2026 and 2027, in line with the HAG Strategic Plan. The network identified three top priorities.
The governance and financing of the European health technology assessment (HTA) system will be a particularly important area of work. Ensuring that the framework evolves to remain resilient, efficient and equitable is critical to its ability to meet future challenges and deliver sustainable value across the Union. In this context, the network will initiate discussions on future governance and financing models and explore opportunities to enhance efficiency and capacity.
The HAG will further focus strongly on the implementation and use of the first joint clinical assessments (JCAs). By fostering collaboration, sharing knowledge, and providing practical support, the network seeks to facilitate discussions on emerging themes and challenges. This is expected to support timely adjustments to national systems and processes, while also helping to identify opportunities to strengthen and future-proof the European collaboration.
Strengthening communication on the role and value of HTA is the network’s third top priority. Through targeted engagement with European and national policymakers and other stakeholders, the network aims to highlight how HTA contributes to evidence-based decision-making, equitable access to health technologies, and resilient healthcare systems.
While these priorities provide a clear focus, a broader set of actions outlined in the HAG Strategic Plan and discussed within the HAG network serve as key enablers for their implementation. Key actions for each top priority will be discussed during the next face-to-face HAG meeting in Cyprus on 29 May 2026.
