Justin Needle

Dr. Justin Needle is a Senior Lecturer in Health Services Research & Policy at the School of Health Sciences, City, University of London. He has been affiliated with the institution since 2006 and currently serves as the Programme Director for the MSc Health Policy. He previously led the Centre for Allied Health Professions (AHP) Research and directed the MSc Allied Health Professions Clinical Leadership programme until 2012.

Education:

• PhD in Philosophy, University of Dundee
• MPhil in Logic, Text and Information Technology, University of Dundee
• MSc in Social Policy and Planning, London School of Economics (LSE)
• MA (Hons.) in Philosophy, University of Cambridge
• Postgraduate Certificate in Academic Practice, City, University of London
• Postgraduate Certificate in Economics, Birkbeck, University of London

Research Interests:
Dr. Needle's research focuses on health policy analysis, telemental health, and systematic reviewing and evidence synthesis. His work explores integrated care models, the role of allied health professionals in health promotion, and the application of economic evaluation in public health. He has contributed significantly to understanding mental health service delivery, particularly during the pandemic, and quality of life for people with aphasia.

Publication Trends:
His recent publications (2020–2023) show a strong emphasis on telemental health, particularly its implementation during the pandemic, user experiences, and effectiveness across different populations. He frequently employs systematic and realist review methodologies. Earlier work includes research on allied health professions, optometry practice, and public health economics.

Scientific Awards:

• President’s Award for Excellence in Learning and Teaching (2017)
• Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (SFHEA)

Advising and Grants:
Dr. Needle is a Category A PhD supervisor and has advised students on topics such as consultant therapeutic radiographers, public attitudes toward Saudi healthcare, and end-of-life care policy. He has secured research grants from NIHR SDO and the Nuffield Trust, focusing on allied health professionals and therapeutic practice. He also serves as an external examiner for health care management programmes at the University of Surrey.

Labs and Research Groups:
He is a principal collaborator in the Centre for Health Services Research and has worked with leading academics from UCL and City, University of London. His research is closely tied to the Health Policy, Leadership and Management Group, where he serves as Group Lead.