8.1 Resource Allocation

Question 1

What is explicit rationing?

Answer 1

Rationing based on defined rules of entitlement. Uses a systematic allocation of resources within a healthcare system

Question 2

Give 3 advantages of explicit rationing

Answer 2

Transparent, accountable
Opportunity for debate
Evidence-based
More equity

Question 3

Give 3 disadvantages of explicit rationing

Answer 3

Very complex
Assumes heterogeneity of patient’s illness
Impacts on clinical freedom
Evidence of patient distress

Question 4

What is implicit rationing?

Answer 4

Care is limited and the reasons why are not given. Care is given on an individual clinically-based assessment.

Question 5

Give a positive of implicit rationing

Answer 5

Sensitive to complex decision making in clinical care

Takes into account patient wishes

Question 6

Give 2 negatives of implicit rationing

Answer 6

Can lead to inequities, discrimination and abuse

Question 7

What is the job of NICE?

Answer 7

Provide guidance on the use of treatments by the NHS

Produces national guidelines for clinical practice

Question 8

When can NICE be seen as controversial?

Answer 8

If treatments are too expensive they will not be allowed to be used on the NHS even if they may provide some clinical benefit.