Artificial intelligence (AI) at NICE
We understand the importance of responsible and effective use of AI.
We're identifying the potential benefits that AI can bring to the health and care system, and how it can be used in the development of our guidance and advice.
Our approach
Artificial intelligence (AI) presents a significant opportunity to better deliver on our core mission and transform how we conduct our business. It can help improve health outcomes and system productivity, and drive innovation within the life sciences and health technology sectors.
To date, NICE has been a world-leading Health Technology Assessment (HTA) body in considering how AI can be applied to healthcare. We've led the way with the publication of both our AI Statement of Intent and position statement on the use of AI in evidence generation. We're also adopting AI across our processes, and have already published 17 evaluations of AI-based medical devices since 2023.
Our plan for 2026/27 builds on ongoing work, as well as commitments in the 10 Year Health Plan and the AI Opportunities Action Plan. More broadly, our ongoing transformation will consider how AI and modern data and digital tools can best position us for the future.
You can find out more in our delivery plan: Unlocking growth by enabling safe AI innovation (Word).
AI Methods for Evidence Framework
As the use of AI continues to grow, there is increasing demand for practical guidance that supports innovation while maintaining the standards of rigour, transparency and trust that underpin NICE's work.
To address this need, we are developing the “AI Methods for Evidence” framework. This best-practice framework builds on the foundations established in our AI Statement of Intent and the position statement on the use of AI in evidence generation. Together, these documents recognise the opportunities AI presents for improving efficiency and supporting better decision-making, while highlighting the importance of managing risks such as bias, lack of transparency and variable performance.
The framework is being developed as a ‘living’ document that can evolve alongside advances in AI. Our initial focus is on developing cross-cutting principles that apply across all AI use cases, alongside clear guidance for high-priority use cases.
The development of this framework is being informed by extensive engagement with internal NICE teams, academics, committees, evidence developers, international HTA organisations and AI experts. It also draws on insights from our wider programme of work on AI such as the HTA Lab, NICE Listens, and insights from other external partnerships.
Engage with us
If you would like more information about the use of AI at NICE, contact AI@nice.org.uk.
For pharmaceutical and healthtech companies seeking NHS market access, you can get reliable scientific advice and NHS insights direct from our NICE Advice service.