More MS news articles for September 2000

Appeal Process: NICE Appraisal of Interferon beta in the Treatment of Multiple Sclerosis

As reported by the Institute last month we have received 8 (eight) appeals against the draft guidance on the use of interferon beta in MS. The appeal is an integral part of the Institute's process for developing its guidance for the NHS. All the nationally based organisations involved in the process are provided with the opportunity to make an appeal.

An independent appeal panel will consider these appeals today, the 22nd September 2000, and in line with the Institute's published policies we will inform appellants and stakeholders of the outcome of the appeal as soon as practicably possible. Appeals can either be upheld or rejected.

If appeals are upheld, the Appraisal Committee are asked to revisit the evidence and reconsider their Appraisal Determination in light of the appeal panel's findings.

If appeals are rejected the draft guidance becomes final guidance and it is issued to the NHS.

From previous experience it is unlikely we will have the appeal panels' decision during the week commencing 25th September, however the Institute will issue a press release as soon as the outcome is available and appellants have been informed.

Anne-Toni Rodgers
Communications Director, NICE