Technical evaluation and assessment

Technology evaluation process:

• Technologies (new or existing with new applications) are identified by various sources including: staff; network physicians; medical literature and the media.
• Reviewed technology topics include current and relevant information, and are approved by regulatory bodies (i.e. FDA) and evidence-based, peer reviewed clinical studies.
• Technology reviews are held in conjunction with the BSC California Technology Assessment Forum (CTAF, www.ctaf.org) three times per year. CTAF recommendations are provided to the Blue Shield of California Medical Policy Committee who then determines the appropriate application of coverage within the scope of the Evidence of Coverage.
• Technologies which are evidence based are found to be safe, effective and appropriate for coverage when they meet the technology assessment criteria.