Objectives: The aim of this study was to explore and describe the viewpoints and beliefs with respect to a health technology assessment (HTA) process and its institutionalization in a sample of stakeholder representatives in Chile.
Methods: A qualitative study with a descriptive design, based on the model of discourse analysis, was performed. Eighteen semi-structured interviews were conducted on nineteen Chilean representatives of stakeholders in HTA. The data analysis was based on a process of open coding that allows the contrasting of the interviewees' visions.
Results: From what the interviewees mentioned, a proposal to institutionalize the process of HTA is presented for Chile. The focus is on three main areas: (i) Principles to guide the HTA, (ii) Institutional Framework for Chile, and (iii) Impacts associated with their implementation process. Transparency and participation were the main principles identified. The idea of an autonomous body for HTA, independent and publicly funded, was widely supported. However, this implementation could face potential resistance from technicians and politicians, who might impose barriers to avoid their loss of decision power.
Conclusions: There is a broad agreement about the importance of creating a national institution for HTA, independent and publicly funded. This study supplies relevant information for other countries that are currently undertaking a similar process.
Keywords: Chile; Decision making; Health technology assessment; Qualitative research.