§ Mr. DrewTo ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) when a decision is expected on funding arrangements for beta interferon; [33128]
(2) what progress is being made on discussions with the drugs companies on the provision of beta interferon. [33129]
§ Ms Blears[holding answer 5 February 2002]: I am pleased to announce that in line with the recommendation from the National Institute for Clinical Excellence we have concluded an agreement with five companies on an innovative scheme which allows patients with multiple sclerosis meeting the criteria of the Association of British Neurologists to be treated cost-effectively with disease modifying therapies on the national health service. The companies have agreed terms for the supply of their products under the scheme. Patients will be monitored to confirm whether the drugs are working. Prices will be reduced if patients do not benefit as expected.
The scheme starts on 6 May 2002. NHS bodies are expected to fund any treatment within this scheme prescribed by clinicians for eligible patients, in accordance with statutory directions. Consultant neurologists, in consultation with patients, will have a choice of treatments within the scheme taking into account expected benefit and potential side effects. The products included in the scheme are Avonex (Biogen), Betaferon (Schering), Copaxone (Teva/Aventis), Rebif 22mg and 44mg (Serono).
Patients whose condition does not come within the ABN guidelines and who are currently receiving treatment with these drugs will continue to do so in line with NICE's recommendation on this point. I am also taking steps to ensure that those patients who have funded their treatment privately because the drug was not available to them locally on the NHS will have the costs of their prescription met from today.
Copies of the Health Service Circular issued to the NHS to explain the scheme have been placed in the Library.