10 Jan 2008
Commenting on the health select committee report, David Stout, Director of the PCT Network which represents the majority of Primary Care Trusts said:
"The NHS Confederation agrees with the committee that NICE does a vital job in difficult circumstances, and should be supported further in its valuable work.
"It is important that disinvestment becomes an increasing priority for NICE, and that older treatments are reviewed to ensure PCTs can provide the most cost-effective care to patients, as highlighted in our evidence to the committee. However we must be careful not to over-estimate the scale of savings that could be made in the NHS.
"We welcome the proposal to review the cost effectiveness thresholds, which could be considered more meaningfully in light of the NHS budget.
"We are also pleased that PCTs will be encouraged to take a more significant role in the development of guidance. The Primary Care Trust Network is currently working to help trusts contribute more effectively to the work of NICE, with the aim of providing more efficient treatment for patients."
ENDS
1. The PCT Network represents the majority of primary care trusts in England. It was established in December 2006 to provide a distinct voice for PCTs. The Network is part of the NHS Confederation;
2. The NHS Confederation represents more than 95% of the organisations that make up the NHS. Its members include the majority of NHS acute trusts, ambulance trusts, foundation trusts, mental health trusts, primary care trusts, special health authorities and strategic health authorities in England; trusts and local health boards in Wales; and health and social service trusts and boards in Northern Ireland.
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Last reviewed 10 Jan 2008