HTA publishes draft response to consultation on its future

The HTA has published a draft response to the Department of Health’s consultation on the future of the HTA and the HFEA. In the consultation the HTA states its preferred option for the future of its functions.

Issue date: 14 September 2012

HTA draft response to the Arm’s Length Bodies’ Review

On 28 June the Department of Health (DH) published a consultation document on the future of the HTA and Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA). The three options outlined in the document are:

Option 1

Transfer all HFEA and HTA functions to the Care Quality Commission (CQC) with the exception of HFEA functions relating to research that will transfer to the Health Research Authority (HRA); and abolish the HFEA and HTA.

Option 2

Transfer all HFEA and HTA functions to CQC with the exception of HFEA functions relating to research that will transfer to the HRA and a limited number of functions that would transfer elsewhere; and abolish the HFEA and HTA.

Option 3

HFEA and HTA retain their functions but deliver further efficiencies.

The HTA believes that option 3 – to retain the HTA as a separate organisation and to make further efficiencies – is, subject to clarification of the further efficiencies expected, by far the best option for the regulated sectors and the public as a whole. It is our view that this option would continue the effective and efficient regulation of human tissue and organs by the HTA, minimise the risks associated with the use of human tissue, and protect public confidence. The HTA therefore supports option 3.

The HTA’s draft response to the consultation can be found on our website.  There is work ongoing to provide further information on the efficiencies which could be realised under option three and these will be included in the final version the HTA submits to DH. The final version of the HTA response is due to be published on our website on 28 September following discussion at the Authority meeting.

If you have any questions or comments please contact us on enquiries@hta.gov.uk

The DH’s consultation closes on 28 September and we would urge all interested parties to respond via their website.