Lay summary
This research explores an innovative and novel approach to Health Technology Assessment. This exploratory project aims to draft a new Health Technology Assessment framework inclusive of Equity measures. The current framework used in Aotearoa New Zealand does not include measurable Equity criteria and can be subject to inequitable decisions. The project will use Wānanga, Māori gatherings of key informants as our preferred methodology to engage with Māori experts (including patients and caregivers, clinicians and Health Technology Assessors) in open discussions to determine the appropriate measures of Equity to be included in a new Health Technology Assessment framework. A literature review of Equity measures used throughout the world, and of relevance to our setting, will also be conducted. The outcome of this project is potentially transformative since it gives voice to Māori in drafting an enhanced, fair and equitable health technology decision-making framework.