HSC pauses update of review of NICE TA drugs for another year
The States is set to hold the progression of spending on some potentially life-saving drugs for another 12 months so that further analysis of the costs and benefits can be made.
NICE TAs are medicines that have been subject to a technical assessment by the National Institute of Clinical Excellence in the UK.
In 2012 the UK made it mandatory for health trusts to offer these drugs and treatments to tackle the ‘postcode lottery’ of healthcare.
The States has agreed that HSC is able to fund drugs and treatments for local use with an incremental cost effectiveness ratio of up to £40,000. Its latest report, due to be debated by the States this week, considers measures it would need to take in order to assess drugs with an Icer above £40,000, having started a review last year.
The vast majority of local spending in this area goes on cancer and rheumatism treatments, and there is also a significant number of ophthalmology patients benefitting from relatively inexpensive treatments.
The committee said that funding NICE TAs was a complex and emotive issue.
‘The committee is acutely aware that a two-tier system is currently in place for those treatments with an Icer >£40,000 based on ability to pay or availability of private health insurance, and that this can come at great personal cost to service users and their families,’ it said.
‘This situation contradicts the principles of the Partnership of Purpose and... is one which the committee wishes to remedy, when there is the opportunity to do so.’
It said the proposals presented were a ‘pragmatic roadmap’ for the ongoing use of NICE TAs while remaining committed to the principle of extending funding when able.
The States currently spends £5.1m. a year on NICE TAs, £4.2m. on nearly 150 different drugs and treatments, which have benefited nearly 900 patients over the past few years, and it is proposed to spend an extra £1.65m. next year.
As part of its research, HSC received a report from CareWatch, an independent consultancy and advisory panel, which showed that islanders had benefited in several ways from the introduction of new drugs and treatments.
CareWatch highlighted seven case studies of people with the conclusion that those who had received a NICE TA drug as part of their treatment were able to feel hopeful and make plans.
‘It is not possible to quantify these benefits on the individuals themselves, their families, or the wider community but the Committee is heartened to hear that NICE TA treatments enabled these islanders to take pleasure from ordinary life events – while experiencing ill-health – that many of us take for granted,’ said HSC.
As well as CareWatch and Deputy Peter Roffey, who led the 2019 requete calling for a review of drugs available, and Policy & Resources, HSC also consulted Heal, Health Equality for All, a lobby group which had pushed for the change.
Former chairman Mike Read said that the group no longer existed, since the need for it had been overtaken by events.
But some of its members were now part of CareWatch, including Mr Read.
‘I personally think the policy letter is pleasantly succinct and easy reading,’ he said.
‘It is fair, realistic and pragmatic.’
The CareWatch panel comprises 12 individuals and is looking for up to three new members. It is particularly interested in people who have a strong interest and knowledge of community health and social care, communications and mental health. For more information go to www.carewatch.gg.
