CHE Policy Forum 2026: Behind the NICE Curtain

We’re pleased to announce that our next CHE Policy Forum will take place on Thursday 10 September 2026, from 2.00 - 3.30pm at the University of York (both in person and online attendance available).

The CHE Policy Forum brings together researchers, policymakers and practitioners to explore timely issues in health economics and health policy. This year's topic is:

Behind the NICE Curtain: The evolving role of External Assessment Groups in shaping evidence, scrutiny, and transparency for NICE decisions

Presented by: Professor Claire Rothery from CHE

Discussant: Raju Reddy FRCA MBA, Consultant Paediatric Anaesthetist, Birmingham Children’s Hospital

Chair: Professor Mark Sculpher, Head of Department for CHE

Abstract

This presentation details the evolving role of External Assessment Groups (EAGs) within the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) technology appraisal process, highlighting their critical contributions to evidence scrutiny, methodological innovation, and transparent decision-making. Established to ensure the efficient use of NHS resources, NICE relies on independent academic groups such as the York Technology Assessment Group (TAR) to critically appraise company evidence submissions and economic models. Over time, the EAG's remit has expanded from developing de novo models for Multiple Technology Appraisals to balancing rapid, proportionate reviews with deep-dive methodological critique for increasingly complex Single Technology Appraisals.

EAG analyses significantly influence final committee deliberations, with an estimated 70% of NICE committee incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) aligning more closely with EAG-preferred assumptions than with company estimates. The presentation also discusses ongoing challenges and debates surrounding the UK cost-effectiveness threshold, severity modifiers, alternative approaches to managing decision uncertainty, and emerging horizons such as generative AI and a whole-lifecycle approach to guidance development.

This is a free event, but spaces are limited. Book your place now!