OBJECTIVES: One of the 4 key pillars of the NICE strategy is to produce rapid, robust and responsive technology evaluation. Three medical technology evaluations have undergone fast tracked guidance process in response to the needs of the topic. This paper reflects on the key learnings across these topics which have produced fast tracked guidance in 2021.

METHODS: All evaluations were based on existing NICE medical technologies guidance process and methods. We reviewed all our guidance across 12 months and selected topics that were fast-tracked in line with new process.

RESULTS: Three topics were identified as fast tracked. The first technology was supported by a vast evidence base and following a positive first committee meeting a straight to final guidance process was successfully trialled. A second technology had a positive committee meeting and standard consultation period. However, following no responses being received further committee discussion was not warranted and it was expedited straight to guidance publication. The final technology received some minor comments during the consultation period, none of which affected the recommendations, so a panel (consisting of a subset of full Committee) reviewed the amendments and approved for final guidance.

These changes saved 19 weeks, 11 weeks, and 6 weeks respectively from an average 42-week process to publication. These savings impacted multiple teams including the time of clinical experts, committee leads and company as well as internal teams. Learnings included the importance of timely communication across NICE teams and the external assessment centre to identify and resolve barriers to meet deadlines.

CONCLUSIONS: These evaluations demonstrated the impact of new process to support fast track options where appropriate. There are positive learnings across each project which we will take forward to continue to be flexible and dynamic whilst maintaining transparency and public consultation as appropriate.