28.08.12
Hospitals must explain treatment delays to patients
NHS ‘scorecards’ are to be introduced to eliminate regional variation on the delivery of new care and drugs recommended by NICE.
The scheme is expected to be launched before the autumn, and hospitals that delay acting on guidance by the health watchdog will be forced to explain the reasons for the wait to patients.
Patients will also be able to compare the speed at which NHS hospitals roll out new care and drugs, as organisations will automatically be added to publicly available lists of what treatments are available in local areas.
The initiative is hoped to create a level playing field for treatments such as IVF, which currently vary considerably depending on location.
Health minister Paul Burstow said: “Patients have a right to drugs and treatments that have been approved by NICE. This new regime will be a catalyst for change – we are determined to eradicate variation and drive up standards for everyone.
“NHS organisations must make sure the latest NICE-approved treatments are available in their area, and if they are not, then they will now be responsible for explaining why not.
“Being transparent with data like this is the hallmark of a 21st century NHS. It is a fundamental tool to help healthcare professionals improve patient care.”
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