This new manual sets out the foundations for the HealthTech programme following the first part of our transformation to be simpler, relevant and purpose-led. It is the first step in an ongoing iterative process to set out in greater detail process and methods to be used by NICE HealthTech programme.

The manual supplements NICE health technology evaluations: the manual and combines the former NICE Diagnostics Assessment programme, Interventional Procedures programme and Medical Technologies Evaluation programme into one HealthTech programme.

Sections of NICE health technology evaluations: the manual and the Interventional procedures programme manual are also proposed for removal or amendment for clarity and consistency.

This new manual includes:

Overview of the NICE HealthTech programme

The unified life cycle approach to be taken in assessing health technologies and interventional procedures is described.

Processes for developing guidance in the HealthTech programme

Two common overarching processes for producing guidance on health technologies and interventional procedures are described.

Methods for guidance produced in the NICE HealthTech programme

Updates to methods specify that guidance for all health technologies can:

  • Use cost utility analysis, although cost comparison remains an option.
  • Include multiple technologies with the same purpose that are available to the NHS.

The document also sets out updated methods and considerations for assessing technologies for early use, replacing those in NICE’s early value assessment interim statement.

We are particularly interested in comments on the clarity of the different recommendations - whether the distinction between the recommendations and what is meant by each recommendation is clear. Information on how these recommendations are interpreted in practice is also welcome.

Approaches to include economic considerations in interventional procedures, methods and processes for late-stage assessment, and evaluation of fast follower technologies will be developed in the coming year and form part of the new manual following consultation.

How to comment

You should read both the consultation document and the accompanying supporting documents before making any comments.

You must make your comments directly onto the online version of the consultation document. When you go into the document you will find instructions on how to use the commenting software. You can also review and edit your comments before you submit them. 

You can download a PDF version of the consultation documents, but you can only make comments on the online versions.

If you wish to comment on this consultation, please create and activate a NICE Account first at https://accounts.nice.org.uk/register

You can then sign into the consultations area via the draft consultation document (online commenting) link.

Consultation documents

Downloadable versions

Supporting documents

Closing date for comments: 5pm, Thursday 6 March 2025