Better systems | BMJ impact report 2022
Request more information
Better systems At BMJ, we go beyond delivering the best available clinical tools and knowledge. We also offer specialist services to help organisations work better and improve health systems. Using our health data and economics expertise to improve health systems
16,000 patients benefit from improved outcomes as a direct result of research conducted by BMJ-TAG
The BMJ Technology Assessment Group (BMJ-TAG) conducts health research for a range of institutions. Their work has led to some revolutionary changes to the way patients receive treatment through the UK’s National Health Service (NHS). Over the past year, the group independently assessed the use of new treatments for ovarian cancer and other life threatening conditions. Their independent assessment of niraparib found it to be fit for use for ovarian cancer by the eligible population in England, and it was subsequently recommended by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), the official body that provides national guidance and advice to improve health and social care. In April 2022, as another result of TAG’s independent assessment, elosulfase alfa was recommended for use in the NHS by NICE for treating mucopolysaccharidosis
Type IV A (MPS IVA). Treatment is expected to start in children when they are around three years old and will be lifelong. If untreated, MPS IVA can cause skeletal abnormalities, respiratory symptoms, pain, fatigue, and reduced life expectancy. The Society for Mucopolysaccharide Diseases (MPS Society) considers elosulfase alfa to be ‘life changing,’ with one parent reporting that:
My son Sam has been receiving Vimizim [elosulfase alfa] for almost 10 years. He does not suffer from fatigue. He does not routinely have any pain. He is 13 [now] but is still very mobile and independent. Vimizim has had an incredible impact on his life, his quality of life and his independence.” Elosulfase alfa is likely to slow disease progression and delay symptom- onset. It also improves children’s quality of life by preserving lung function and improving endurance. However, as it is still highly uncertain if elosulfase alfa actually increases someone’s life compared to being untreated, the company offered a substantial discount on the retail price of the drug, resulting in a large cost saving for the NHS.
Powered by FlippingBook