Ms Cliona Loughnane:

It is the National Institute for Clinical Excellence. It is a group that develops the models of care for different diseases. For example, it has a clinical standard for heart failure. Based on what it states should be achieved for patients with heart failure, those responsible for the budget in the NHS can decide whether these services are covered.

As discussed, the health care needs of a people change, based on the population and medical developments. If a health basket were established it would need to be updated on a regular basis. The Netherlands, which has a health basket system, has an annual consultation to discuss what should be removed or included. Clinicians are included in this process as are patient groups.

As indicated in our opening statement, we believe that definition of universality is very important and it could be achieved by the committee. We will send on material.