HEHTA are part of a University of Glasgow-led team that has developed a new framework for natural experiments to better support health researchers and decision makers. The project, in collaboration with the Medical Research Council (MRC) and the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR), set out to improve guidance in the conduct and use of natural experimental evaluations (NEEs). The new framework brings advice up to date by incorporating the latest advancements in the field and by providing clarity around definitions, concepts, and best-practice methods, helping advise how NEEs can positively inform policy and program effectiveness. 

The Medical Research Council and NIHR logo can be seen beside the clarice pears building, an individual drawing a framework, and a stock image of a crowd of people.

Natural experiments can be defined as "real-word" research opportunities, such as the introduction of new laws or policies, which offer researchers the chance to study and measure societal impact and health outcomes. They are an important part of the research landscape, especially when a randomised design is not ethical or practical.  

HEHTA's Professor Jim Lewsey and Dr Manuela Deidda have helped develop the framework by using their expertise in the design and analysis of NEEs, including economic evaluation.  Their collective experience covers a variety of contexts, notably the evaluation of the introduction of minimum unit pricing for alcohol in Scotland, as well as the methodoligical considerations of designing and conducting economic evaluations alongside NEEs. 

Jim and Manuela are co-authors of the framework paper, recently published in the British Medical Journal (BMJ), which presents the outcome of the project. 

Read the NIHR report here 

Access the publication here

Read University of Glasgow's press release here

First published: 28 March 2025

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