Health Technology Assessment International (HTAi) www.htai.org

HTAi is unique. It is the only international professional society focusing specifically on HTA and embracing all those who do and use it, whether in academic institutions, healthcare facilities, industry, business, the voluntary sector, or government.

The Health Information and Quality Authority: www.hiqa.ie

HIQA is the independent Authority which has been established to drive continuous improvement in Ireland’s health and social care services. The Authority was established as part of the Government’s overall Health Service Reform Programme. The Authority’s mandate extends across the quality and safety of the public, private, (within its social care function) and voluntary sectors. Reporting directly to the Minister for Health and Children, the Health Information and Quality Authority has statutory responsibility for:

Setting Standards for Health and Social Services – Developing person centred standards, based on evidence and best international practice, for health and social care services in Ireland (except mental health services).

Monitoring Healthcare Quality – Monitoring standards of quality and safetly in our health services and implementing continuous quality assurance programmes to promote improvements in quality and safety standards in health. As deemed necessary, undertaking investigations into suspected serious service failure in healthcare.

Health Technology Assessment – Ensuring the best outcome for the service user by evaluating the clinical and economic effectiveness of drugs, equipment, diagnostic techniques and health promotion activities.

Health Information – Advising on the collection and sharing of information across the services, evaluating information and publishing information about the delivery and performance of the Ireland’s health and social care services.

Social Services Inspectorate – Registration and inspection of residential homes for children, older people and people with disabilities. Monitoring day- and pre-school facilities and children’s detention centres; inspection foster care services.