Health Technology and Services Research

The work of the Health Technology and Services Research group (HTSR) revolves around how medical technology can make the clinical and economic aspects of healthcare more efficient. A new method is considered at an early stage – ideally the development stage – so as to reveal whether the new technology should be introduced or discontinued. The issue when introducing medical technology is what effect it will have on the quality and funding of medical care.

HTSR conducts research into the latest imaging and diagnostic methods, examining for instance how the efficient introduction of PET/CT scanners could improve the quality of care for cancer patients. The new scanner combines two technologies often needed to detect cancer: a CT scan uses X rays and a PET scan uses a small quantity of radioactive material.

Another example: HTSR is also looking into how MIRA’s innovative rehabilitation robot LOPES, and a device that makes metal implants for patients with the spinal condition scoliosis, can be brought to market most quickly and efficiently. Information from research of this kind enables companies to make choices regarding product development, thus substantially increasing the likelihood that a new technology will actually be introduced.

For more information about Health Technology and Services Research, visit the homepage of this research group.