Government
Bill would alter comparative effectiveness research oversight
NEWS IN BRIEF — Posted June 8, 2009
A dozen members of the moderate, 66-member New Democrat Coalition announced their support for a measure that would amend the comparative effectiveness oversight provisions in the recent federal stimulus bill.
The provisions set aside $1.1 billion for evaluations of the effectiveness of different drugs, devices and procedures on the same medical condition. The statute established a 15-member panel -- including physicians and senior members of federal agencies -- to prioritize spending on the research.
But the Comparative Effectiveness Research Act of 2009, introduced by Rep. Kurt Schrader (D, Ore.) on May 19, would transfer that responsibility to a new nongovernmental institute with a 21-member board of governors. The board would include scientists, physicians, and representatives from insurance companies and federal agencies.
The bill also directs the institute to develop methodology for prioritizing comparative effectiveness research, collect data and share that information with the public. "This bill will empower doctors, nurses and patients with the facts necessary to make those difficult choices," Schrader said.
Note: This item originally appeared at http://www.ama-assn.org/amednews/2009/06/08/gvbf0608.htm.
