The EBPB draws together expertise, user experience and secondary evidence to provide advice on medical technologies. The Board has an all-Wales remit.
EBPB Topic Proposal
The Board welcomes topic proposals and suggestions from Welsh NHS organisations where they think that the EBPB could undertake reviews of evidence, cost effectiveness and safety, and issue practical guidance for NHS Wales. The EBPB Evidence Research Group (ERG) are happy to assist in the framing of appropriate questions and Topic referrals.
How do I submit a Topic referral to EBPB?
Fill in a Topic Referral Form and submit it to the email address at the top of that form. Forms will only be accepted from within NHS Wales.
If you become aware of substantial change in the evidence base or circumstances related to published advice, email the EBPB who will then consider whether a review is necessary.
EBPB topics typically aim to answer specific questions, rationalise usage, or consider efficacy compared with alternatives. Topics are generated from various sources which include:
EBPB process is summarised below:
Completion of a Topic Referral Form (TRF) enables progression to topic screening. Topics are screened by the SMTL R&D Department to ascertain whether they meet EBPB criteria. If criteria are met, topics enter the work programme and proceed to prioritisation where relevant. A clinical champion is also appointed (usually the topic referrer).
Topics on the work programme undergo Evidence Review which typically involves:
Evidence reviews are considered by the Board when producing advice statements. Implementation of advice statements leads to evidence-based procurement. Recommendations are disseminated to every Health Board across Wales by Medical Directors. Following this, device usage and spend may be monitored. Previous topics considered by the EBPB have led to: