The following NICE appraisal has been considered by NHS Quality Improvement Scotland through its revised procedure of processing of NICE appraisal (http://www.nhsqis.org/nhsqis/files/NICEGuidanceProcess.pdf):
NICE (Multiple) Technology Appraisal Guidance No 142 – Epoetin alfa, epoetin beta and darbepoetin alfa for cancer treatment-induced anaemia
NHSScotland should note that: 1. No important differences were identified for these NICE appraisals and NHS Quality Improvement Scotland advises that the recommendations are as valid for
2. NHSScotland should take account of the NICE appraisals and this NHS Quality Improvement Scotland email in its planning, funding and provision of services to ensure that recommended drugs or treatments are made available to meet clinical need. 3. NHS Quality Improvement Scotland advice represents the evidence-based view of NHS Quality Improvement Scotland. 4. This advice does not override or replace the individual responsibility of health professionals to make appropriate decisions in the circumstances of their individual patients, in consultation with the patient and/or guardian or carer. 5. No other publications on the NICE appraisal will be issued by NHS Quality Improvement Scotland. 6. Copies of the NICE appraisals can be downloaded from http://www.nice.org.uk. Also on the website are tools (a costing template and audit criteria) that NICE has developed to help organisations to implement this appraisal. Finally, an easy to read summary of the appraisal, called "understanding NICE guidance" is published on the NICE website to provide information for patients and the public. 7. Whilst this email alert is distributed widely in NHSScotland, I would appreciate if Medical Directors could forward this email to relevant health professionals in their Board. 8. Hard copies of the NICE appraisals are available from NHS Quality Improvement Scotland (contact Shonagh Buchanan, tel 0141 225 6993 or email shonagh.buchanan@nhs.net) and all NICE appraisals and NHS Quality Improvement Scotland advice are available on the NHS Quality Improvement Scotland website (www.nhshealthquality.org).
