Belgian Health Care Knowledge Centre

Belgian public institution for health care research

The Belgian Health Care Knowledge Centre (KCE) is a public institution in Belgium that conducts research and provides evidence-based information to support health care policy and practice. Established in 2003, the KCE plays a crucial role in the Belgian health care system by evaluating medical practices, health care technologies, and health care organization.

History

The KCE was founded in response to the need for a centralized body to provide scientific advice and analysis on health care issues in Belgium. It was established by the Belgian government to ensure that health care decisions are informed by the best available evidence. Since its inception, the KCE has been instrumental in shaping health care policy and improving the quality of care in Belgium.

Mission and Objectives

The primary mission of the KCE is to conduct research that supports health care decision-making. Its objectives include:

• Providing independent and scientifically sound advice on health care issues.
• Evaluating the effectiveness, safety, and cost-effectiveness of health care interventions.
• Analyzing health care organization and financing.
• Promoting the use of evidence-based practices in health care.

Research Areas

The KCE focuses on several key areas of research:

Health Technology Assessment (HTA)

The KCE conducts HTA to evaluate the clinical and economic value of medical technologies, including drugs, devices, and procedures. This helps policymakers make informed decisions about which technologies to fund and implement.

Clinical Practice Guidelines

The KCE develops clinical practice guidelines to assist health care professionals in making evidence-based decisions. These guidelines are based on systematic reviews of the literature and expert consensus.

Health Services Research

The KCE examines the organization, delivery, and financing of health care services. This research aims to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the health care system.

Public Health Research

The KCE also conducts research on public health issues, such as disease prevention and health promotion, to inform public health policy and practice.

Organization

The KCE is governed by a Board of Directors and an Executive Committee. It employs a multidisciplinary team of researchers, including physicians, economists, statisticians, and other health care professionals. The KCE collaborates with national and international research institutions to enhance the quality and impact of its work.

Impact

The KCE's research has had a significant impact on health care policy and practice in Belgium. Its reports and recommendations are widely used by policymakers, health care providers, and other stakeholders to improve the quality and efficiency of health care services.

Related Pages

• Health care in Belgium
• Health Technology Assessment
• Clinical practice guidelines

The KCE headquarters in Brussels