Navigating the complex world of healthcare policy can feel overwhelming, but Clifford Goodman, PhD, has spent decades making it clearer and more impactful. As a leading expert in health technology assessment and comparative effectiveness research, Goodman’s work shapes how healthcare decisions are made globally. From his 27-year tenure at The Lewin Group to his role as an independent consultant, he’s driven innovation, moderated high-stakes discussions, and influenced policies that affect millions. Curious about how his insights can transform healthcare? Let’s dive into his journey and contributions.
Who Is Clifford Goodman?
Clifford Goodman, PhD, is a titan in healthcare technology and policy. With a doctorate from The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania, a master’s from Georgia Tech, and undergraduate work at Cornell, his academic foundation is rock-solid. For 27 years, he served as Senior Vice President at The Lewin Group, a health policy consulting firm under UnitedHealth Group. Now an independent consultant, Goodman’s expertise spans health technology assessment, evidence-based healthcare, health economics, and clinical practice guidelines. His work supports governments, pharmaceutical companies, medical device firms, and patient advocacy groups worldwide.
Transforming Healthcare Through Research
Goodman’s career is defined by his ability to bridge science and policy. At The Lewin Group’s Center for Comparative Effectiveness Research, he led groundbreaking studies on comparative effectiveness, helping stakeholders understand which treatments deliver the best outcomes. His research informs decisions on pharmaceuticals, biologics, and medical devices, ensuring resources are used efficiently. By focusing on real-world evidence, Goodman empowers healthcare providers and policymakers to prioritize patient outcomes over guesswork.
A Master Moderator and Facilitator
Beyond research, Goodman is a sought-after moderator for healthcare discussions. He’s led panels at major events like the ACO Coalition meetings and the Academy of Managed Care Pharmacy. His ability to distill complex topics—like value-based contracts or Repatha’s cardiovascular outcomes—makes him a trusted voice. Whether facilitating expert panels or industry workshops, Goodman ensures diverse perspectives are heard, fostering collaboration across stakeholders.
Leading the Charge on Value Frameworks
Goodman has been a vocal advocate for value frameworks, tools that clarify cost-benefit tradeoffs in healthcare. At the ACO Coalition spring meeting in 2017, he highlighted how these frameworks vary by audience, from patients to payers. His work emphasizes that value isn’t just about price—it includes equity, innovation, and unmet medical needs. By championing multi-stakeholder perspectives, Goodman ensures healthcare policies balance clinical and economic impacts.
Recognition and Leadership
Goodman’s contributions haven’t gone unnoticed. He served as Chair of the Medicare Evidence Development and Coverage Advisory Committee from 2009 to 2012, shaping Medicare’s approach to evidence-based coverage. He’s also Past President of Health Technology Assessment International (HTAi) and a Fellow of the American Institute for Medical and Biological Engineering. In 2017, he received the NCCN Partner in Cancer Award, followed by the 2022 David Banta Distinguished Career Award from HTAi. These accolades reflect his lasting impact on healthcare innovation.
Why Goodman’s Work Matters Today
In a rapidly evolving healthcare landscape, Goodman’s insights are more relevant than ever. His focus on evidence-based decision-making helps address rising costs, regulatory challenges, and the need for personalized medicine. By advocating for data-driven policies, he ensures healthcare systems can adapt to new technologies while prioritizing patient care. His moderation of discussions, like those on oncology drug pipelines during COVID-19, shows his ability to tackle timely issues with clarity and foresight.
How to Leverage Goodman’s Insights
Want to apply Goodman’s expertise to your healthcare challenges? Start by exploring value frameworks to make informed treatment decisions. Engage with evidence-based research to optimize resource allocation. For organizations, consider consulting experts like Goodman to navigate policy complexities. His work, accessible through platforms like NCCN, offers a roadmap for balancing innovation and affordability in healthcare.