HIGH TECHNOLOGY IN HEALTH CARE

Abstract
The structure of the Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris renders necessary an inhouse centralized technology assessment unit. This unit, named CEDIT (Committee for the Evaluation and the Diffusion of Innovative Technologies), has been functioning since 1982 and has advised the Director General on 70 new technologies, including the lithotriptor and plasma-exchange therapy. A particular feature of the CEDIT is that it is in charge of both the assessment and the implementation of the recommendations following this assessment. We attempt to describe the consequences of the CEDITs functioning compared to other countries' technology assessment organizations.