Work Placement Report

CID - 02328959

Name of the Organization: Centre of Health Economics and Policy Innovation

Dates of the Work Placement: June 26 - August 18, 2023

Word Count: 2879

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 Table of Contents

Contents Page No

Introduction Pg 3

The Organisation Pg 4

Your Role and Impact Pg 5

Application of Msc Content Pg 6

Project Description and Analysis Pg 7

Self Reflection and Achievements Pg 8-9

Conclusion Pg 10

References Pg 11

Appendices Pg 12

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Introduction
During my internship, at the Centre of Health Economics and Policy Innovation under the guidance of
Professor Marissa Miraldo and Dr. Chaunzi Yue I had the privilege of contributing from June 26th to
August 18th, 2023. As a research consultant for the Hiprix project commissioned by the European
Commission I had an opportunity to bridge the gap between knowledge gained in my Master of
Science (MSc) program in International Health Management and its practical application in the
dynamic field of international health management.

In this report I aim to provide an overview of my experience during this work placement. I will discuss
my understanding of the organizations landscape, delve into my role within the Hiprix project and
highlight how I integrated knowledge acquired through my MSc program. Additionally I will explore
aspects such as research, collaboration with stakeholders and policy analysis conducted as part of
the project. Through self reflection I will critically assess my contributions to uncover transformative
insights and evaluate objectives achieved during this enriching experience. This report emphasizes
the relationship between learning and real world impact while highlighting the value of practical
experiential learning.

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The Organisation
During my work placement, at the Center of Health Economics and Policy Innovation (CHEPI) I had
the opportunity to witness the position this organization holds in the field of healthcare economics and
policy. CHEPI has made a name for itself by conducting evidence based research and collaborating
with stakeholders to improve healthcare practices.

The inception of CHEPI was driven by an urge to provide analysis and strategic insights that can
guide decision making in the healthcare sector. Their expertise lies in conducting in depth research on
innovation and investment using data and a deep understanding of how the healthcare industry
operates.

Through established networks and partnerships CHEPI actively engages with government agencies,
industry experts and patient advocacy groups. This collaborative approach allows them to tackle
healthcare challenges comprehensively. An example of their initiatives is the Hiprix project, which
they carried out on behalf of the European Commission. This project aimed to enhance health
technology assessment policies.

During my time at CHEPI I witnessed firsthand their commitment to evidence based practices and
their significant role, in shaping healthcare policies.
During my participation, in the Hiprix project I had the opportunity to witness firsthand how the
research and collaboration efforts of CHEPI contribute to generating insights that lead to
improvements in healthcare systems. This experience allowed me to gain an understanding of the
organizations goals and its influence on the wider healthcare sector.

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Your Role and Impact
During my time, at the Centre of Health Economics and Policy Innovation (CHEPI) I had the
opportunity to work as a research consultant on the Hiprix project. It was an experience that allowed
me to explore and make an impact in various ways. My main responsibility was conducting research
and analysis specifically focusing on Health Technology Assessment (HTA) policies. By studying
evidence and conducting literature reviews I gained valuable insights into healthcare systems across
different contexts.

A significant part of my role involved conducting literature reviews, which formed the foundation of my
research endeavours. To better understand HTA policies and their complexities I meticulously
examined not countries but also emerging economies like India, China and Brazil. This exploration
went beyond boundaries. Provided me with a holistic perspective on different approaches to
pharmaceutical innovation and investment. Through my literature review I gained an understanding of
various drug approval criteria as well as the unique processes involved in orphan drug approval.

One notable achievement during my tenure was the development of a HTA database. This repository
encompassed a range of variables, including information about HTA bodies, in countries and the
legislations governing their operations.
Furthermore the database has documented the criteria employed by each country when it comes to
approving drugs and medical devices providing an overview of regulatory frameworks. Within this
network the database has also shed light on the pathways that countries navigate in order to approve
orphan drugs, which present unique challenges and considerations.

The impact of my efforts had an effect, on the Hiprix project and beyond. Through curation and
organization of data I facilitated decision making processes that were driven by evidence.
Stakeholders, including teams at CHEPI and consortium partners at large were able to access
nuanced and comprehensive insights. The contributions I made data discussions enabling research
outcomes to be transformed into actionable recommendations for policy development and strategic
planning.

Moreover my role extended beyond compiling data; it involved collaboration. By engaging with
stakeholders from sectors I gained insights into how HTA policies are practically implemented.
Interacting with government bodies, industry organizations and patient advocacy groups provided
knowledge of the dynamics that shape healthcare policies. This hands on engagement added depth
to my contributions. Allowed me to adopt a perspective that went beyond theoretical analysis.

In essence my role as a research consultant revolved around immersing myself in understanding HTA
policies and their ranging impact, on innovation.
I made contributions, to the Hiprix project by conducting research curating data diligently and
collaborating with stakeholders. This experience provided me with insights into how policy, innovation
and healthcare outcomes are interconnected. It emphasized the importance of research and
collaborative efforts, in improving healthcare systems.

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Application of MSC Content
During my time, at the Centre of Health Economics and Policy Innovation (CHEPI) I had the
opportunity to work as a research consultant in the Hiprix project. It was a journey of exploration.
Making an impact. My main task was to conduct research and analysis on Health Technology
Assessment (HTA) policies using both evidence and a thorough review of relevant literature to
understand healthcare systems in different contexts.

A significant part of my role involved conducting a literature review, which formed the foundation for
my research efforts. I carefully examined not countries but also emerging economies like India, China
and Brazil to gain insights into the complexities of HTA policies. This broad exploration helped me
develop an understanding of approaches to pharmaceutical innovation and investment. Through my
literature review I gained insights into approval criteria for drugs and medical devices as well as the
unique processes involved in orphan drug approval.

One notable achievement during my tenure was creating a database focused on HTA. This database
encompassed a range of variables, including information about HTA bodies, in countries and the
legislative frameworks supporting their operations.
Moreover the database has catalogued a range of criteria used by each country when it comes to
approving drugs and medical devices presenting an overview of regulatory frameworks. Within this
landscape the database has also highlighted the pathways that countries navigate in order to approve
orphan drugs, which present unique challenges and considerations.

The effects of my work resonated not within the Hiprix project but beyond. Through curation and
organization of data I facilitated evidence based decision making processes. Stakeholders, including
teams, at CHEPI well as consortium partners at large were able to access nuanced and
comprehensive insights. My contributions fuelled discussions in data translating research outcomes
into recommendations for policy development and strategic planning.

Furthermore my role extended beyond compiling data to collaboration. Engaging with stakeholders
from sectors provided insights into the practical implications of Health Technology Assessment (HTA)
policies. By interacting with bodies, industry organizations and patient advocacy groups directly I
gained knowledge about the intricate dynamics that shape healthcare policy implementation. This
immersive involvement added depth to my contributions. Allowed for a perspective that went beyond
theoretical analysis.

In essence my role as a research consultant encompassed an in depth exploration of HTA policies

and their reaching impact, on innovation.
I made contributions, to the Hiprix project by conducting research carefully curating data and
collaborating with stakeholders. This experience provided me with insights into how policy, innovation
and healthcare outcomes are interconnected. It emphasized the importance of research and
collaborative efforts, in improving healthcare systems.

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Project Description and Analysis
During my involvement, in the Hiprix project at the Centre of Health Economics and Policy Innovation
(CHEPI) I had a hands on experience exploring aspects of Health Technology Assessment (HTA)
policies, incentive mechanisms, legislations and national plans. This project aimed to delve into the
factors that influence innovation and investment not just in well established economies but also in
emerging markets like India, China and Brazil. My contributions to this project covered dimensions
that played a role in understanding the intricacies of healthcare policy formulation and its practical
impact.

Thorough Research on HTA Policies, Incentive Mechanisms, Legislations and National Plans;
At the core of the Hiprix project was the need for research. I had the responsibility of conducting
examinations of HTA policies, incentive mechanisms, legislations and national plans across countries.
This task required an approach where I closely analyzed initiation dates, key characteristics and
overall objectives of each policy framework. Through this analysis I gained an understanding of how
different countries adopt distinct approaches, towards pharmaceutical innovation strategies.

Establishment and Upkeep of HTA Database;

One significant outcome resulting from this research endeavor was the creation and ongoing
maintenance of a well organized HTA database.
This database functioned as a repository of information encompassing everything from the various
HTA bodies, in different countries to the legislations that support their establishment. It also
documented the criteria employed by countries for approving drugs and medical devices. This
extensive resource made it easier to access information offering a view of regulatory landscapes
across different jurisdictions.

Working with Stakeholders to Gather Information;

As a research consultant it was essential for me to actively collaborate with a range of stakeholders.
This collaboration extended beyond the boundaries of CHEPI. Included teams within both CHEPI and
i3Health well as the broader Hiprix consortia. By engaging with groups I gained insights and
perspectives that enriched my research. Additionally I interacted with government agencies, industry
organizations and patient advocacy groups. These interactions provided me with experience in
understanding the dynamics that influence healthcare policy implementation.

Monitoring and Reporting Policy and Regulation Updates;

One aspect of this project involved monitoring policy and regulatory updates. As pharmaceutical
innovation and investment landscapes evolve policies are subject, to refinements. It was my
responsibility to track these changes diligently and analyze their implications. Regular updates and
progress reports were prepared for the management team and other stakeholders.
These updates not gave us a real time view of the projects progress. Also helped us make decisions
based on evidence.

Meetings, Progress Reports and Recommendations, to the Management Team;

The success of the project relied heavily on our meetings with the Hiprix consortium and other
stakeholders. These meetings took place every Friday. Served as a platform for exchanging insights
sharing progress and collectively addressing challenges. The consortium comprised experts from
fields creating an environment that fostered the exchange of ideas. Through these interactions I was
able to present progress reports provide updates on policy changes and offer recommendations
based on evidence to the management team.

The Hiprix project demonstrated how healthcare policy formulation and implementation are
interconnected. My contributions included research, database creation, collaboration, monitoring and
reporting—all of which fueled the projects development. This experience allowed me to witness
firsthand how research, stakeholder engagement and evidence based decision making come together
in healthcare policy. The iterative nature of this project—driven by policy updates and dynamic
stakeholder interactions—perfectly captured the nature of healthcare policy, in action.
This project highlighted the impact that research based on evidence can have on shaping policies that
promote innovation and investment ultimately benefiting healthcare systems and societies as a whole.

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Self-Reflection and Achievements

My time, as a research consultant at the Center of Health Economics and Policy Innovation (CHEPI)
was an experience. It not deepened my understanding of healthcare policy. Also played a significant
role in my personal and professional growth. Looking back on this work placement it's clear that it was
more than a development opportunity – it transformed me as a whole.

One of the highlights of my work placement was the extensive research and analysis I conducted for
the Hiprix project. This involved delving into HTA policies, incentive mechanisms, legislations and
national plans. Through literature reviews and data analysis I not made substantial contributions to
the project but also learned valuable research methodologies that will undoubtedly shape my future
endeavors.

Additionally I take pride in creating and maintaining the HTA database. This structured repository
provided insights into how different countries approach innovation. It emphasized the significance of
data management in making evidence based decisions. This experience left a lasting impression on
me regarding research integrity and the importance of data driven insights.

Collaboration emerged as a theme throughout my accomplishments, in this role.

Interacting with stakeholders, from fields has given me a valuable insight into the complex factors that
shape healthcare policies. Working alongside teams the Hiprix consortium, government agencies,
industry organizations and patient advocacy groups has allowed me to gain an understanding of
different viewpoints. I have been able to promote evidence based approaches and effectively
communicate my research findings. Through this experience I have developed skills and fostered an
atmosphere of open communication and mutual understanding.
The job placement allowed me to develop in ways more than just my technical abilities. I learnt the art
of effective communication at the weekly meetings with the Hiprix consortium and other stakeholders,
where I was able to condense complicated study findings into brief, useful ideas. I gained confidence
and skill in navigating multidisciplinary debates by participating in lively discussions and delivering
progress updates.

My initial personal goals for the work placement experienced a transformational metamorphosis. The
experience strengthened my commitment to evidence-driven decision-making in healthcare, even if
my initial intentions were only focused on acquiring useful insights and contributing to the Hiprix
project. The ability of empirical facts to spur beneficial change was shown by seeing how solid
research affects policy making. Additionally, the exposure Stakeholder involvement brought attention
to the value of teamwork in attaining comprehensive healthcare advances.

The gap between academic ideas and their application in practise was further highlighted by the work
placement. While the coursework for my MSc in International Health Management gave me a solid
foundation, navigating the complicated web of healthcare regulations brought home how difficult it is
to apply theory in the real world. This insight strengthened my desire to close this gap by persistently
looking for chances to use academic knowledge in practical circumstances.

My self-reflection on my accomplishments and development during the work placement at CHEPI, in

conclusion, reveals a transformative journey that went beyond professional goals. My grasp of
healthcare policy dynamics has been strengthened and widened by the rich tapestry of research,
cooperation, and stakeholder involvement.

This experience improved my communication and analytical abilities while also reaffirming my
dedication to make decisions based on the best available facts. I take forward the priceless
knowledge I learned from this placement as I start my new career, confident in my capacity to make a
significant contribution to the constantly developing field of global health management.

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This experience improved my communication and analytical abilities while also reaffirming my
dedication to make decisions based on the best available facts. I take forward the priceless
knowledge I learned from this placement as I start my new career, confident in my capacity to make a
significant contribution to the constantly developing field of global health management.

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Conclusion
In hindsight, my experience at the Centre for Health Economics and Policy Innovation (CHEPI) during
my work placement has been a life-changing odyssey. I dug into the complex area of healthcare
policy through thorough study, cooperation, and stakeholder engagement, putting my skills from my
MSc in International Health Management to use. Evidence-driven decision-making has been shown to
be effective through the development of an HTA database, active involvement in consortium
meetings, and the synthesis of empirical ideas. This encounter strengthened my professional
knowledge while also reinforcing the crucial part that research plays in determining healthcare
policies. My participation at CHEPI serves as a poignant reminder of the mutually beneficial
interaction between theoretical learning and practical application in the changing environment of
global health management.

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References

Drummond, M. F., Schwartz, J. S., Jönsson, B., Luce, B. R., & Neumann, P. J. (2008). Key
principles for the improved conduct of health technology assessments for resource allocation
decisions. International Journal of Technology Assessment in Health Care, 24(3), 244-258.

Banta, D., & Luce, B. R. (2003). Health care technology and its assessment: An international
perspective. Oxford University Press.

Hailey, D., & Morgan, S. (Eds.). (2012). The social value of health technology assessment: A
systematic review of health technology assessment (HTA) influence on health systems.
International Journal of Technology Assessment in Health Care, 28(2), 159-165.

Culyer, A. J. (2005). HTA: A (loosely) critical history. Health Policy, 71(1), 1-13.

Neumann, P. J., & Weinstein, M. C. (2010). Legislating against use of cost-effectiveness

information. New England Journal of Medicine, 363(16), 1495-1497.

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 Appendix

Appendix 1

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