04.01.11
For the greater good
Whenever NICE issues guidance that labels a certain drug too expensive or poor value for money for use on the NHS, there is understandably significant opposition to this decision.
Knowing that a drug exists that could help patients suffering from malignant melanoma, even if this is just to extend their life expectancy by a few months, and having it restricted in this way may be more difficult than knowing there is no medical intervention at all that could help.
Unfortunately for these patients, NICE must look at the bigger picture and consider how the health service budget can best be used to help as many people as possible.
Instead of blaming NICE, perhaps more concern should be aimed at the companies who market these drugs at prices which are not feasible on the NHS.
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Image c. Alvey & Towers