Information Graphics in Health Technology Assessment

Abstract

This thesis addresses the question of the design, production and use of information graphics in health technology assessment (HTA). Drawing on previous research in both information design and health policy, it describes a comprehensive design process for creating new visual presentations that can inform health policy-makers.

The thesis begins by introducing, and functionally defining the terms ‘information graphics’ and ‘health technology assessment’ in Chapter 1. It then offers a methodological discussion of how research can be performed at the intersection between these two diverse fields. This discussion forms Chapter 2 of the thesis.

The context of use is surveyed in two studies, which are presented in Chapter 3. These assess the current use of information graphics in HTA, and the information needs of health policy decision-making bodies. This enables a needs-based approach to the design of 10 information graphics, that could be used in hta. These are shown in Chapter 4.

Finally, two of these information graphics are empirically tested with two further research studies, forming Chapter 5 and Chapter 6.

The thesis is aimed at giving practical advice to those wanting to produce graphical presentations of information in HTA, and to provide the foundation for further original research in information design and HTA. Chapter 7 draws together the research from the rest of the thesis, to make recommendations in light of the combined findings.