AWMSG appraisal process (Wales)
The AWMSG appraisal process evaluates new medicines to decide if they should be prescribed in NHS Wales. It helps patients get access to new treatments faster by making timely decisions, often before similar UK bodies, while avoiding duplication of work.
At a glance
Use when
Evaluating new medicines for adoption in NHS Wales, especially when timely local decisions are needed ahead of national UK guidance.
Avoid when
Assessing non-medicine technologies (e.g., devices, procedures), or when national consistency with England is required regardless of timing.
Inputs
Clinical evidence, cost-effectiveness analyses, manufacturer submissions, public consultations, and existing guidelines from NICE/SMC.
Outputs
Prescribing advice for NHS Wales, including recommendations for use (with or without restrictions) or non-recommendation for new medicines.
How it works
The All Wales Medicines Strategy Group (AWMSG) conducts single technology appraisals to assess new medicines for use in NHS Wales. Between October 2010 and September 2015, AWMSG completed 171 appraisals for 137 medicines (including new indications). The process resulted in 152 positive recommendations (33 with restrictions) and 19 negative recommendations. Median time advantage over NICE for positive recommendations was 10.6 months, indicating earlier patient access. Recommendations show high concordance with NICE and SMC.
- HTA domains
- Clinical Effectiveness, Costs & Economic Evaluation, Organisational aspects
- Assumptions
- Appraisal outcomes align with broader UK evidence (e.g., NICE/SMC); timely access improves patient outcomes; local decision-making reduces duplication and increases efficiency.
- Strengths
- Faster access to medicines for patients in Wales compared to waiting for NICE guidance,High concordance with NICE and SMC increases credibility and reduces conflict,Reduces duplication by leveraging existing UK appraisals where possible
- Limitations
- Limited to medicines, not broader health technologies,Smaller scale than NICE, potentially limiting resource capacity,Some recommendations may be superseded by later NICE guidance
- Also known as
- AWMSG process, All Wales Medicines Strategy Group appraisal, AWMSG medicines appraisal
Questions this answers
- › Does the medicine provide clinical benefit for its intended use?
- › Is the medicine cost-effective compared to existing treatments?
- › Are there specific restrictions or conditions under which the medicine should be used?
- › How does the medicine impact patient access and equity in Wales?
- › How timely is the appraisal process compared to other UK bodies?
- › What is the level of alignment with NICE and SMC recommendations?
References & sources
Similar by meaning
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