The development and updating of local formularies and NICE
NHS organisations, including hospitals, must publish details about how they make medicines recommended by National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) technology appraisal guidance available for their patients. This is usually achieved through a medicines formulary.
What is NICE Technology Appraisal Guidance (TAG)?
NICE technology appraisal guidance makes recommendations on when and how new and existing medicines and treatments should be used in the NHS. (NICE, December 2012). For further information please refer to the NICE website.
What is a local formulary?
A medicines ‘formulary’ is a list of medicines that are available for use within an organisation such as a hospital. The main purpose of the formulary is to specify which medicines are approved for use under particular circumstances. Formularies take into account the efficacy, safety, and cost-effectiveness of medicines. A local formulary is the result of processes to support the managed introduction, utilisation or withdrawal of healthcare treatments within a local healthcare system, service or organisation. (NICE, Development and updating of local formularies, draft guidance, September 2012).
Does the Trust have a medicines formulary?
Yes. Our Trust follows the North Staffordshire Joint Formulary which has been developed for NHS organisations in North Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent. Medicines recommended for use in NICE TAs are incorporated automatically into the formulary. This will be within three months of the NICE TA being published.
How do I access the formulary?
You can view the formulary by visiting this website.