Consultation by: Department of Health and Social Care
Healthwatch Birmingham and Solihull responded to the government’s consultation on proposed changes to how NICE sets cost‑effectiveness thresholds. We raised concerns about risks to NICE’s independence and the potential for ministerial priorities to override clinical evidence, which could disadvantage people with rare or complex conditions. We warned that removing consultation requirements may limit patient voice and transparency. We also highlighted the risk of widening health inequalities if changes to thresholds are not fully assessed for their impact on public health.
We raised concerns about risks to NICE’s independence, the potential for ministerial priorities to override clinical evidence, and the danger of widening health inequalities. We also stressed the importance of continued public consultation to ensure transparency and protect patient voice.
Maintaining NICE’s independence
We highlighted the risk that extending ministerial powers, even in limited form, could undermine NICE’s independence and lead to decisions that prioritise political pressures over clinical evidence and patient outcomes.
Protecting against increased inequality
We warned that ministerially set thresholds could disadvantage people with rare or costly conditions and risk deepening existing health inequalities if wider public health impacts are not fully considered.
Retaining public consultation and transparency
We strongly disagreed with proposals to remove the requirement for NICE to consult on procedural changes resulting from ministerial direction. We emphasised that consultation is essential for understanding real‑world impacts and ensuring patient voice remains central.
Ensuring decisions support long‑term public health
We stressed that decisions must remain transparent, evidence‑based, and focused on long‑term outcomes rather than short‑term budget pressures. We will continue to monitor developments and respond to further proposals.
| HWBSol's response to proposed changes to NICE regulations | Download File (pdf 103.33 KB) |