NICE

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NHS, industry and NICE

Formed in April 1999, NICE has to date conducted over 85 health technology appraisals, many of them for high profile drugs. The institute is also producing a growing number of evidence-based clinical practice guidelines. Its work though has not been without criticism, from both the industry and the NHS.

The positive decision on the atypical antipsychotics for schizophrenia is a case in point. The decision delighted mental health campaigners, but worried senior clinicians and academics who argued that the drugs' worth has not yet been proved. In some people’s minds, the decision has renewed the criticism of NICE’s methodology with claims among academics that there have simply not been sufficient ‘independent’ trials to prove the effectiveness and cost benefits.

On the other hand, the main patient group involved here said that the ruling by NICE was ground-breaking, putting the user at the heart of healthcare decision-making and should be welcomed, implemented and funded. Where there is controversy like this, NHS influencers may need to be sensitive to some local scepticism, despite the NICE ruling.

It is strongly suggested that a full and comprehensive understanding of the NICE area should be key for all NHS influencers.