The Pharmaceutical Journal
Vol 268 No 7199 p705-712
25 May 2002

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ABPI wants more independence in NICE appeals process

The Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry has called for the National Institute for Clinical Excellence appeals process to be made more independent.

In a submission to NICE's review of the process, the ABPI says that it is disappointed with changes proposed so far. In particular, it is concerned that the appeals panel is compromised because the chairman of NICE decides whether appeals should be heard, decides whether an oral hearing is allowed, appoints the members of the panel and is, generally, chairman of the panel.

"It is quite unacceptable that NICE should be both judge and jury in its own court," Dr Trevor Jones, director general of the ABPI said. "NICE has only tinkered with its appeals system in these proposals. They do not represent a fair process, nor do they adequately protect the legitimate interests of those taking part."