Health technology assessment in traditional Chinese medicine in China: current status, opportunities, and challenges

Abstract

Abstract Objectives The widespread usage of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and the government's emphasis on TCM in China have created a positive macro-environment and great opportunities to develop and strengthen health technology assessment (HTA) in TCM. Over the past ten years, a series of policies have been issued by the government to promote the application of HTA and the development of TCM in China. This study reviews the concepts and characteristics of TCM, summarizes the current status of HTA in TCM, and analyzes the opportunities and challenges faced by HTA development in TCM with respect to deepening of healthcare reforms. Methods Literature review and website searches were used to acquire information regarding the basic theories of TCM and the current status, opportunities, and challenges for HTA in TCM. Results The number of articles on HTA in TCM rose substantially, especially those published in China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI). With the optimistic policy environment and huge market demand for TCM, the development of HTA in TCM is expected to flourish in China. However, HTA in TCM also faces numerous challenges such as the absence of a clinical efficacy evaluation system for TCM and insufficient basic research evidence and qualified personnel. Conclusions TCM has unique characteristic that distinguishes it from Western medicine. Currently, it is important to take all measures to address the existing main challenges and thereby take advantage of the present opportunities to develop and improve HTA in TCM.