Tables turned as patients appraise NICE (UK National Institute for Clinical Excellence):
This article was originally published in Clinica
Executive Summary
The UK Consumers' Association is to conduct a "public inquiry-style hearing" into the role and activities of the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE), ahead of the latter's first fundamental government review since it was set up in early 1999. The Association aims to ensure that the patient perspective is represented. Key issues to be discussed at the July 25 meeting will be the involvement of patient organisations in NICE appraisals and the overall adequacy and transparency of the process. The healthcare industry is set to follow developments closely, amid concerns that the government's review may lack independence and thoroughness. The Association of British Health-Care Industries, however, has expressed its support for the government's review plans (see Clinica No 959, p 8).