Microscopic image of villi
Microscopic image of villi

Health technology assessment

Value in healthcare is defined as outcomes that matter to our members relative to the cost of delivering those outcomes. We live in an age of innovation in healthcare where many advances in medical technology have significantly improved outcomes. However, some technologies add substantial cost without adding significant outcomes benefit (eg decreases the value of treatment).

As a not-for-profit, Friendly Society, it's important we have a clear process to approve coverage for new technologies that allows us to prioritise value. We have developed guidelines so that there is a clear and consistent process for our value-based approach to healthcare delivery.

Applications for assessment of health technologies are accepted for the following categories:

  • new procedures / technologies
  • eligibility criteria changes for an existing procedure
  • incremental changes to existing technology / device
  • diagnostic tests and investigations.

Assessment guidelines and process

  • Applications must be submitted by a registered healthcare provider in New Zealand.
  • Applications must be for conditions covered by Southern Cross policies.
  • Applications must be approved by Medsafe.
  • Applications will not be approved if developmental / experimental in nature.

Once an application is received, the procedure / technology will be placed on the Southern Cross Health Society unapproved healthcare services list until assessment is completed.

HTAQ assessment diagram
HTAQ assessment diagram

If you have any questions about the process or guidelines, please email [email protected] or write to the Medical Officer, Southern Cross Health Society, Private Bag 99934, Newmarket, Auckland 1149.

To download your application, please enter the below information

 

This information will be used to assess the health technology / procedure you have applied to have covered by Southern Cross and to contact you if we require further information and / or to advise the outcome of the assessment. It will be held at Southern Cross Medical Care Society, Level 1, Te Kupenga, 155 Fanshawe Street, Auckland City 1010 and you are able to access it or request correction by contacting us at [email protected].