The aim of these HTAs is to ensure a more efficient referral process, standardise the care provided and ultimately improve patient access to beneficial surgery. The HTAs make recommendations on referral and, or treatment thresholds for scheduled procedures following an extensive review of international best practice, consultation with an expert panel, and a public consultation by HIQA.

The background and methods and ethical analysis document provides context for this work.
This series of HTAs is one of a number of initiatives in progress to tackle waiting lists and to provide access to services in a governed manner. The completed reports have been submitted as advice to the HSE and to the Minister for Health. Full copies of all reports are available through the links above.

This phase in the series of HTAs focused on four high-volume scheduled surgeries: varicose vein surgery (vascular surgery); tonsillectomy; grommet insertion and adenoidectomy; and cataract surgery. The reports set out the minimum criteria a patient should meet before being referred for treatment. Use of these thresholds should lead to a more streamlined referral process, standardise the care provided and ultimately improve patient access to beneficial interventions.
The HTA reports for this phase of the project were reviewed and approved by the Executive of the Authority after being made available for a period of public consultation. Originally requested by the Director General of the Health Service Executive (HSE), the completed evaluations have been submitted to the HSE and to the Minister for Health for consideration.