Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) sufferers are not being enabled the treatment which would benefit their eyesight. On the contrary, as per the claims of a labor MP, the primary care trusts (PCTs) are not in a position to sponsor a new treatment which would be beneficial to people with AMD.
Alice Mahon, a patient, who suffered the condition, is on the verge of suing her PCT, if the treatment for the drug ‘Lucentis’ is not paid up. The drug has shown immense promise when used on patients in private hospitals. She has blamed the PCTs for taking cover under the National Institute of Clinical Excellence (Nice).Ms Mahon said, "Patricia Hewitt wrote to me and said that Nice do not have to have approval for PCTs to prescribe it. It is something that PCTs are hiding behind."
Earlier research had linked the drug to an enhanced risk of stroke, but the treatment has also shown positive results when used on AMD patients.
"I am really worried that we are now into an American-style rationing situation," she said. "I know we were told that the government has to make hard choices I really didn’t think it meant allowing people to go blind." br>
Source-Medindia
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