Involving patients in HTA activities at local level: a study protocol based on the collaboration between researchers and knowledge users

Marie-Pierre Gagnon, Johanne Gagnon, Michèle St-Pierre, François-Pierre Gauvin, Florence Piron, Marc Rhainds, Martin Coulombe, Dolores Lepage-Savary, Marie Desmartis, Mylène Tantchou Dipankui, France Légaré

The literature recognizes a need for greater patient involvement in health technology assessment (HTA), but few studies have been reported, especially at the local level. Following the decentralisation of HTA in Quebec, Canada, the last few years have seen the creation of HTA units in many Quebec university hospital centres. These units represent a unique opportunity for increased patient involvement in HTA at the local level. Our project will engage patients in an assessment being carried out by a local HTA team to assess alternatives to isolation and restraint for hospitalized or institutionalized adults. Our objectives are to: 1) validate a reference framework for exploring the relevance and applicability of various models of patient involvement in HTA, 2) implement strategies that involve patients (including close relatives and representatives) at different stages of the HTA process, 3) evaluate intervention processes, and 4) explore the impact of these interventions on a) the applicability and acceptability of recommendations arising from the assessment, b) patient satisfaction, and c) the sustainability of this approach in HTA.