The Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care has published version 8.0 of its General Methods, which form the basis for assessments in statutory health insurance. The revision takes into account comments from a hearing at the end of February 2025, with clarifications and clarifications, but without significant changes. A new chapter summarizes the involvement of those affected, including methods for collecting patient information that were previously distributed.

In a few studies, the procedure for meta-analyses was expanded by Bayesian random effects models, developed with researchers from Göttingen. These integrate data from previous benefit assessments to estimate heterogeneity more reliably and make assessments more precise.

At the same time, a new methodology for determining minimum reserve numbers for service groups in hospitals will come into force, based on the 2024 hospital reform. The Federal Ministry of Health can commission IQWiG to develop recommendations, supplemented by analyses by the Institute for the Remuneration System in Hospitals on the distribution of locations. The final determination is made by ordinance.

The draft methodology was put up for discussion in September 2025, supplemented by a webinar with over 300 participants. Statements brought positive feedback, without fundamental changes. The database is considered to be in need of improvement, to which IQWiG wants to contribute in order to ensure appropriate retention figures and adequate care. The methodology is initially published separately and will later be integrated into the General Methods.

The methodology for the EU-wide benefit assessment of new medicines from 2025 onwards is at European level; IQWiG will describe in future versions how EU results are incorporated into national assessments.

These updates ensure transparent, science-based decisions in the healthcare sector, especially on service allocation and drug pricing.

Editor: X-Press Journalistenbüro GbR

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