Health disparities and equity in HTA systems and research are pivotal issues that influence the accessibility, affordability, and equality of healthcare. The data connectivity between healthcare and social security, and the varying levels of awareness further complicate these issues. The session aims to address these complexities by fostering a holistic discussion on the landscape of health equity, and how to promote relevant research and incorporate them into healthcare policy for improved patient access.

Ota will open the session by describing the importance of accounting for equity within HTA from the industry perspective and then will invite panelists representing diverse geographical regions and professional backgrounds to share the current state of health equity research within HTA. Then, each speaker will describe how health equity is currently considered within HTA in their region based on their experience in their professional role (Dr Igarashi-academic, Dr Ramagopalan-regulatory, and Dr Whittington-value assessment). Each panelist will present an agenda for the next three to five years that will allow for the better incorporation of health equity considerations within HTA decision-making and research activities. The role of each stakeholder group (i.e., industry, academic, regulatory, value assessment) in promoting the consideration of health equity will be addressed, reflecting upon panelists’ diversified professional roles. Using the polling software, we will ask participants about the outlook of health equity at the beginning and the end of the workshop. Twenty minutes will be reserved for audience comments.