NHSE and NICE invite comments on pathway to fast-track MedTech

NHS England and the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) have invited comments on proposals for MedTech developers to fast-track products for use by the healthcare system.

The plans outlined in the consultation document focus on moving towards a more rules-based, integrated, and predictable pathway for the evaluation, funding and commissioning of MedTech in the NHS.

They outline a new route for MedTech developers to access NHS funding that will enable them to fast-track clinically and cost-effective products for use across the NHS.

This is intended to ensure that more products recommended by NHS can be introduced on a large-scale to improve patient outcomes.

Dr Vin Diwakar, interim medical director for transformation at NHSE, said: “Medical technology plays a vital role in the nation’s health and these proposals outline how we can fully maximise its use for the benefits of patients.

“We are eager to hear from patients, industry, clinicians and the public to help us develop and shape the MedTech pathway to ensure it can provide the greatest clinical and cost-effective benefit, so please come forward with your views.”

The proposals have been developed by NHSE and NICE with input from the Department of Health and Social Care and other partners, including the Office for Life Sciences and the Medicines and Health products Regulatory Agency.

Mark Chapman, director of the Health Technologies Programme at NICE, said: “This new pathway aims to ensure that patients in every area of the country can benefit from the best products, devices, digital technologies, or a diagnostic innovation.

“It will bring clarity to MedTech developers, giving them a clear route to accessing NHS funding, in the same way the pharmaceutical industry currently benefits from.”

Feedback on the proposals is being sought from patients, clinicians, academics, and industry.

The consultation launched on 23 May 2024 and is open for 12 weeks until midnight on 15 August 2024.

On 25 June 2024, NICE published draft guidance on digital supported self-management of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, under the Early Value Assessment programme, which provides rapid assessment of digital products, devices and diagnostics.