Professor Alan Maynard OBE was a pioneering health economist whose work fundamentally shaped the development of health economics as a discipline and influenced NHS policy and practice for decades. His career combined academic rigour, fearless critique, and practical engagement in health service management, making him one of the most influential social scientists in the UK and internationally.

Early Life and Education

Alan Maynard grew up on the Wirral. He studied Economics at Newcastle University, before completing a BPhil in Economics at the University of York. His passion for economics led him to an academic career that would eventually put health economics on the map.

Academic Career and Contributions

Alan arrived at York as a graduate student in 1967, returning as a lecturer in 1971. With brief periods at Exeter University and the Nuffield Trust, he remained a central figure at York for over 50 years, inspiring students, colleagues and policy makers alike.

In 1978, he created the MSc in Health Economics, which has trained over 750 professionals worldwide, including economists, clinicians, and health service managers. He founded the Centre for Health Economics (CHE) in 1983, serving as its director until 1995. CHE has been instrumental in advancing health economics research and continues to flourish today.

He was also the founding editor of the journal, Health Economics, and helped establish the York Health Economics Consortium and the Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, cementing York’s reputation as an international hub for health economics and policy.

NHS Engagement and Policy Impact

Beyond academia, Alan played a leading role in NHS planning and management in York, serving on the York Health Authority, the York Hospitals NHS Trust, and later as Chair of York NHS Trust (1997–2010) and Chair of the Vale of York Clinical Commissioning Group (2012–2015).

He championed evidence-based decision making, emphasising the importance of clinical and cost-effectiveness in healthcare. His work helped inform the establishment of the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) and influenced how health outcomes are measured and valued.

Alan was known for his sharp wit and unflinching honesty. He would challenge policy makers when he saw “faith-based solutions” or when people were “talking tosh,” yet his rigorous academic work, insight and authenticity meant he remained a respected voice in debate, even among those who disagreed with him.

Mentorship and Legacy

A key part of Alan’s legacy is his mentorship. He nurtured hundreds of students and researchers, encouraging critical thinking and curiosity across health disciplines. He engaged with NHS staff and clinicians, always “walking alongside” them to improve patient care and policy decisions.

He was also a gifted communicator, writing in academic journals, contributing columns to the Health Services Journal, and engaging with wider audiences via blogs and social media, always combining insight with humour.

His contributions helped transform health economics from a niche sub-specialty in the 1970s into a thriving global profession. His influence continues to resonate in health policy, research, and education worldwide.

Professor Maynard’s contributions to health economics and the NHS were widely acknowledged. He was appointed OBE in 2009 for services to health economics and healthcare and was awarded the internationally prestigious Graham Prize, regarded as one of the highest honours in health services research.