§ Mr. Paul MarsdenTo ask the Secretary of State for Health how the National Institute for Clinical Excellence will judge the cost-effectiveness of new drugs and treatments. [55272]
§ Mr. BoatengOur proposals for the appraisal process will shortly be published for discussion with interested parties. The National Institute for Clinical Excellence will itself be responsible for developing the precise criteria to be applied in judging clinical and cost effectiveness, drawing on international experience and methodology and guidance on the methods of appraising effectiveness in public expenditure.
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§ Mr. Paul MarsdenTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what account the National Institute for Clinical Excellence will take of royal colleges' recommendations in formulating best practices. [55271]
§ Mr. MilburnThe National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) has yet to be established. However, the Government's reforms for health, including the establishment of NICE, are centred around a partnership between the health professions (including professional bodies like the Royal Colleges), the public, the National Health Service and the Government themselves.
§ Mr. Paul MarsdenTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what plans the National Institute for Clinical Excellence has to ensure consistency in the response it receives on developing best clinical practices. [55274]
§ Mr. MilburnThe public and Government expect to see health services that are consistent with our research knowledge and best professional practice. The Government's proposals introduce a comprehensive National Health Service agenda for quality, with local duties to ensure quality, backed up by a new Commission for Health Improvement which will monitor clinical standards set by NICE.