18 June 2004
NHS trusts that fail to implement National Institute for Clinical Excellence guidance on anti-cancer drugs and other treatments will receive lower star ratings, the Healthcare Commission and the Department of Health confirmed this week.
The move came after Health Secretary John Reid published a report showing 'unacceptably high variations' in the uptake of cancer drugs sanctioned by Nice.
The report, by national cancer director Professor Mike Richards, found that some recommended drugs were three or four times more likely to be prescribed in some areas than others. Reid has instructed local NHS organisations to set out plans to improve use of the drugs. He added that his department would ensure Nice guidelines were implemented equally throughout the country.
Trusts would be assessed on their performance in this area through star ratings. Anna Walker, chief executive of the Healthcare Commission, said: 'Assessing the implementation of Nice guidance is a high priority for the commission. We are currently developing our new ratings and review system.'
PFjun2004
