Healthwatch Birmingham & Solihull’s response to proposed changes to NICE regulations: cost‑effectiveness threshold

13/01/2026

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.

By Healthwatch Birmingham & Solihull
Consultations DHSC 2026 NICE