Please pass this on to people living in the UK

The petition

Beta interferon is the only clinically proven and licensed treatment which can reduce devastating and painful relapses in people with multiple sclerosis. These can involve loss of sight, mobility and other serious disability. The Government's health standards body - the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) - is carrying out a review of beta interferon to determine whether this drug should be available on the NHS in England and Wales. The initial recommendation made by NICE (that the drug should not be available on the NHS) has been rejected by an appeal panel. NICE has been instructed to look at the issue again and to make a decision during December (to be announced in January). More information at http://www.mswebpals.org/lobby.htm

Desired outcome

We want the Government to agree to allow neurologists to prescribe Beta Interferon on the NHS when the neurologist feels the drug would be beneficial to the patient.

Who do we need to influence

Rt Hon Alan Milburn MP, Secretary of State for Health

How long will we campaign

Immediately until end January 2001, possibly longer depending on outcome.

Who to contact

Contact Julie Howell at jooly@mswebpals.org

Please sign the online petition at http://www.ethical-business.com/petitions.asp?pet_id=50

Very many thanks for your support.

Julie Howell
Person with MS and manager of http://www.mswebpals.org, an online community for people living with MS.