Technology appraisal processes and timelines
Different processes are used to develop technology appraisal guidance.
You can view these process types, along with brief descriptions and links to timelines for each of them on this page.
Single technology appraisal
This is a technology appraisal that assesses a single drug or treatment.
When it's used
We use the single technology appraisal process for new technologies - usually new pharmaceutical products or licence extensions for existing products. We also use it for reviews of some published appraisals.
Single technology appraisal timeline
A step-by-step guide to our single technology appraisal process.
Multiple technology appraisal
This is a technology appraisal that assesses several drugs or treatments used for one condition.
When it's used
We use the multiple technology appraisal process if a new topic for an appraisal has multiple technologies or is particularly complex and not suited for the single technology appraisal process. It's also used for reviews of published appraisals.
Multiple technology appraisal timeline
A step-by-step guide to the multiple technology appraisal process.
Cost comparison appraisal
The cost comparison process aims to provide quicker access for patients to the most cost effective new treatments.
When it's used
A technology will be appraised through this process if a cost comparison case can be made that shows it's likely to provide similar or greater health benefits at similar or lower cost than technologies already recommended in technology appraisal guidance for the same indication.
If a positive recommendation is made through the cost comparison process, NHS England commissioners have committed to providing funding for the technologies within 30 days of guidance publication.
Cost comparison appraisal timeline
A step-by-step guide to our cost comparison appraisal process.