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Abstract

Diagnostic imaging and radiotherapy are rapidly evolving fields. Technological advances and changes in techniques for imaging or treatment need to be accompanied by robust assessment of the impact and cost-effectiveness of any new approach. Insight into the research design approaches that are useful for assessing new diagnostic imaging technologies and radiotherapy interventions is provided in this chapter. Methods to assess the accuracy of imaging modalities, the basics of randomized controlled trial design and cost-effectiveness assessment and methods to undertake systematic reviews and meta-analyses are included. The chapter focuses on the strengths of the methods and also the limitations and potential areas for bias that may limit the quality of the study and the strength of any conclusions drawn. The chapter does refer the reader to useful websites for further guidance and useful resources relevant to health technology assessment.

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Probst, H., Ramlaul, A. (2020). Health Technology Assessment. In: Ramlaul, A. (eds) Medical Imaging and Radiotherapy Research: Skills and Strategies. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-37944-5_12

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