September 2014

NICE hosted a delegation of participants from the Department of Health Research (DHR), Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), Medical Technology Assessment Board and the National Health Systems Research Centre (NHSRC), following the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between NICE and DHR,Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India.

The aim of the study visit was to understand the role of NICE in Health Technology Assessment and priority-setting in the NHS. This involved understanding the use of clinical and cost-effectiveness evidence in helping policymakers make rational and transparent decisions.

The visit also provided an opportunity for NICE International and its Indian counterparts to review prospective joint activities. The ensuing discussion on Health Technology Assessment emphasized the growing political commitment in India to evidence-informed decision making, and DHR/ICMR made a specific request to NICE for technical support on developing processes and methods for Health Technology Assessment.