Some skin conditions can be treated with ultraviolet radiation, which is a type of light that’s not visible. These are defined as photoresponsive skin conditions – the most commonly treated are psoriasis, vitiligo, eczema, and cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (a type of skin cancer). This type of treatment does not cure the condition; often treatment needs to be continued or symptoms may return.
Narrowband ultraviolet B phototherapy is the most common type of therapy for these conditions. It involves exposing the affected person to ultraviolet radiation. Treatment is usually done in an outpatient setting, such as a clinic or doctor’s office. However, people who have difficulty getting to a clinic may benefit from narrowband ultraviolet B phototherapy in their home.
This health technology assessment looked at how safe, effective, and cost-effective home narrowband ultraviolet B phototherapy is for people with some photoresponsive skin conditions. It looked at the budget impact of publicly funding home narrowband ultraviolet B phototherapy. It also looked at the experiences, preferences, and values of people with photoresponsive skin conditions.
Read the full health technology assessment report for more information.
The Ministry of Health is currently reviewing this recommendation.
The Ministry of Health has provided the following response: The Ministry has a standardized process in place to review health technology assessments and funding recommendations. This takes into consideration Ministry priorities, implementation options, the need for consultation with impacted stakeholders, and funding considerations.