Research within KHeaT

One of the key roles of Technology Assessment is to provide a prospective knowledge about the possible or probable consequences of new and emerging technologies. In the process, intended and non-intended impacts of the technology application are identified. Technology Assessment can be conducted in different fields such as health and care. 

Anticipating the spectrum of possible consequences of technology, at an early stage, helps to make good use of the potential of progress and to be able to minimize risks or even to avoid them. The research is carried out in a multi and trans-disciplinary way, promoting engagement and involvement of different stakeholders (from academia, business, law, education, etc), giving a special importance to civil society, namely (potential) users and social actors (citizens) in its procedures. By ensuring a problem-oriented research, technology is thus shaped considering societal needs and values. Such participatory approach, specially with patients and non-patients,  promotes healthcare technology development since its innovation process, in a responsible and co-designed manner, by considering its user at the centre. The result of research is knowledge for action that can be uptake by those who shape scientific and technical progress, such as industry, business, politics, academia and society.