What information should PCTs post on their websites about their local decision making processes?
Individual PCTs should put policies and procedures on websites, together with an electronic version of any patient leaflet and the application forms that PCTs have devised for applications. Previous cases should not be put on an open website, even in anonymised form. PCTs could however put IFR cases in an anonymised form on an intranet site which is only open to NHS staff to help develop an understanding of how the IFR process works. PCTs should be cautious however to avoid IFR decisions ever “setting a precedent” which will lead to other applications for the same treatment. If this occurs PCTs should develop a commissioning policy for the treatment in question rather than rely on an IFR decision.
