Academy of Medical Royal Colleges: 31 evidence-based interventions - engagement document (July 2020)

Summary

The NHS workforce has a remarkable record in providing safe, effective and equal care for everyone. But, like many healthcare systems around the world, the NHS is facing significant day-to-day challenges, made worse by the outbreak of COVID-19 and the resulting effects on health and social care.

The NHS should only offer tests, treatments and procedures, often referred to as interventions, that the best available evidence shows is the most appropriate and clinically effective.

Research evidence shows that some interventions are not clinically effective or only effective when they are performed in specific circumstances. And as medical science advances, some interventions are superseded by those that are less invasive or more effective. At both national and local levels, there is a general consensus that more needs to be done to ensure that the least effective interventions are not routinely performed, or only performed in more clearly defined circumstances.

Earlier this year, NHS England and NHS Clinical Commissioners launched a new programme focusing on items that should not be routinely prescribed in primary care.

31 interventions were identified and the public invited to comment on them. The consultation period is complete and the responses that have been submitted will be considered and a final recommendation made later in the year.