NICE PROCESSES IN NEED OF REVIEW FOLLOWING ALZHEIMER'S DRUG RULING - RANDERSON

12.01.43pm BST (GMT +0100) Fri 10th Aug 2007

The Welsh Liberal Democrats today welcomed the High Court ruling that the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) should reassess its guidance on whether certain anti-dementia drugs should be funded by the NHS.

Commenting, Welsh Liberal Democrat Health Spokesperson Jenny Randerson AM said:

"The ruling highlights what is wrong with NICE's processes. NICE must now take a more holistic look at how it reaches these critical decisions that affect so many people's lives.

"We shouldn't underestimate the impact these drugs can have to alleviate the suffering of many people with Alzheimer's.

"We need drug rulings that allow clinicians to excise their judgement in the best interest of the patient and the NHS."

ENDS

Ends/diwedd

Contact/Cyswllt: Andrew Sherwood 02920 898324