NHS England and the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) are seeking feedback on their proposal to streamline the pathway for MedTech developers to fast-track products for use in the healthcare system.
The consultation document outlines plans for a more efficient and transparent evaluation, funding, and commissioning process for MedTech in the NHS. This new route will allow developers to access NHS funding to expedite the introduction of clinically proven and cost-effective products across the health service.
The goal is to increase the adoption of NHS-recommended products to improve patient outcomes on a larger scale. Dr. Vin Diwakar, interim medical director for transformation at NHSE, emphasized the importance of maximizing the use of medical technology for the benefit of patients.
Stakeholders, including patients, industry professionals, clinicians, and the public, are encouraged to contribute their views to shape the MedTech pathway. The proposals, developed by NHSE and NICE in collaboration with various partners, aim to ensure equal access to the best healthcare products and innovations nationwide.
Feedback on the proposals is being solicited from a wide range of stakeholders, with the consultation period open until 15 August 2024. In addition, NICE has recently published draft guidance on digital supported self-management of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease as part of the Early Value Assessment program. This initiative provides a rapid assessment of digital health products, devices, and diagnostics to enhance patient care.
