The NHC has published three consultation documents on their website http://nhc.health.govt.nz/our-work/consultations on:

1)  Four 'Cardiac Cluster' assessments for sector feedback.  These include:

• renal artery denervation for patients with refractory hypertension
• percutaneous interventions for the treatment of mitral regurgitation
• percutaneous left atrial appendage occlusion for the prevention of stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation
• cardiac catheter ablation for the treatment of atrial fibrillation.

The consultation document summarises the findings of these assessments, and gives the NHC’s consequent draft advice and recommendations to the Minister regarding the public funding of these interventions in New Zealand.

2)  An exploration of the model of care for Ischaemic Heart Disease (IHD) patients. This recommends five areas for further assessment work.

3)  An exploration of the model of care for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). This recommends five areas for further assessment work.

Note: Please send your comments directly to the NHC (please forward us a copy of your submission if you do make one).