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CEDAR leads health economic evaluation of single-use endoscopes in Cardiff and Vale UHB

CEDAR is currently leading a health economic evaluation of single-use endoscopes (SUEs) to explore their potential role in supporting endoscopy services within Cardiff and Vale University Health Board (UHB). The project is funded by the Cardiff Capital Region (CCR) Challenge Fund and is being delivered in close collaboration with IQ Endoscopes, the Shaping Change team at Cardiff and Vale UHB, and Miss Jennifer Waterman, a Surgical Registrar at the University Hospital of Wales.

With growing demand for diagnostic endoscopy procedures, the evaluation aims to assess whether single-use endoscopes could offer an effective and operationally flexible alternative to traditional reusable devices. CEDAR’s role is to provide an independent, evidence-based assessment to inform local and national decision-making around adoption, service planning, and value for money.

CEDAR has adopted a mixed-methods approach to this evaluation, including:

  • A rapid review of relevant literature
  • Health economic modelling and comparative cost analysis
  • Sustainability and carbon footprint assessment
  • Patient-level data collection and audit
  • Observational work in clinical settings
  • Engagement with clinicians, service managers, and patients

This is the third phase of CEDAR’s involvement in the Endoscopy Challenge, which began in 2022. The latest phase builds on previous work by expanding the evaluation’s scope, supporting more detailed modelling, and helping identify areas where single-use endoscopes might bring the greatest value.

In recognition of this successful collaboration between the NHS and industry, the project team received the Partnership with the NHS Award at the 2024 MediWales Awards (pictured right). 

The outcomes of this ongoing evaluation will support evidence-based service development within Cardiff and Vale UHB and contribute to wider NHS learning about the potential role of single-use technologies in endoscopy.

To find out more and hear directly from those involved, watch the project video below.