NHS Lewisham Primary Care Trust (PCT) has responsibility for commissioning treatments and services that meet the health needs of the population and that reduces health inequalities. These services need to be clinically effective, evidence based and of high quality. In this role, NHS Lewisham makes decisions on how treatments such as new drugs and advanced technological procedures are provided to its local population are therefore available on the NHS.

Due to the limited financial allocation of resources, the PCT has to prioritise which services and treatments can be commissioned whilst ensuring that resources are equitable, appropriate and result in the largest possible health gain for the population it serves. It is important that the PCT stays within the budget set by the Government thus priority is given to treatments that are proven to be clinically effective providing the best cost effective health gains to patients.

NHS Lewisham cannot provide every treatment that a patient or groups of patients may request. In order to decide which treatments should be funded policies have been developed to prioritise treatments based on the available resources and clinical effectiveness.

• The Exceptional Treatment Arrangements Panel
• Requests for Exceptional Treatment Arrangements
• Review and Appeals Process

Further information on the Exceptional Treatment Arrangements can be obtained by emailing Una Hayles.