The Political Sociology of NICE: Investigating Pharmaceutical Cost‐Effectiveness Regulation in the UK
Author Information
Author(s): John Abraham, Gowree Balendran
Primary Institution: Brighton and Sussex Universities Medical School (BSMS)
Hypothesis
What sort of meso-level regulatory organisation has NICE been?
Conclusion
NICE is largely characterised by neoliberal corporate bias, though some elements of its organisation are also consistent with theories of capture, pluralism, and polycentricity.
Supporting Evidence
- NICE was established in 1999 to regulate the cost-effectiveness of pharmaceuticals for the NHS.
- 84% of drug appraisals by NICE resulted in positive guidance for use on the NHS.
- NICE's funding model has increasingly relied on fees from pharmaceutical companies.
Takeaway
This study looks at how NICE, the UK's health technology regulator, interacts with the pharmaceutical industry and whether it prioritizes public health or industry interests.
Methodology
The study used documentary research, interviews with expert informants, and observations of NICE-related meetings over approximately 7 years.
Potential Biases
There is a significant risk of bias due to revolving doors and conflicts of interest between NICE personnel and the pharmaceutical industry.
Limitations
The study may not capture all perspectives as it focused on senior officials and expert informants.
Participant Demographics
Participants included 18 experts, primarily from NICE and the pharmaceutical industry.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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