HealthPathways vs NICE CKS (2025): Local Logistics vs National Standards

Last reviewed: 2025-12-19 · Reviewed by

Try iatroX

At a Glance

Who is it for?

HealthPathways:Regional GPs

NICE CKS:All GPs (England/Wales)

Why choose HealthPathways?

  • **Service Specific**: 'Refer to Dr Smith at City Hospital'.
  • **Forms**: Direct links to local referral forms.
  • **Funding**: Warnings about procedures not funded locally.

Why choose NICE CKS?

  • **Clinical Standard**: The legal baseline for GP practice.
  • **Management**: Step-by-step prescribing advice.
  • **Prescribing**: Dosage and duration guidance.

Feature Comparison

CapabilityHealthPathwaysNICE CKS
AuthorityLocal ICBNICE (National)
ContentReferral CriteriaClinical Management

In-Depth Analysis

Overview

NICE CKS tells you when to refer (e.g., "Refer if EGFR < 30"). HealthPathways tells you where to refer (e.g., "Send to Renal Unit at Royal Infirmary via e-RS").

Most GPs have both tabs open.

Looking for a faster way?

While HealthPathways and NICE CKS are powerful tools, iatroX offers a free, AI-driven alternative focused specifically on rapid UK guideline retrieval and exam prep.

Try iatroX Free

Use-Cases

Diagnosing Diabetes

When to choose HealthPathways

  • Might have a summary.

When to choose NICE CKS

  • **Winner.** Definitive diagnostic criteria.

Referring to Diabetes Clinic

When to choose HealthPathways

  • **Winner.** Tells you which clinic to pick.

When to choose NICE CKS

  • Only says 'refer to specialist' generic advice.