HHS Committee Explores Issues Raised by Clinton’s Clinical Trials Order

BETHESDA, Md—President Clin-ton’s executive memorandum directing Medicare to pay the costs of routine care delivered to beneficiaries who participate in clinical trials left some major questions unanswered, NCI director Richard D. Klausner told the National Cancer Advisory Board.

“There are several issues that need to be addressed,” he said. “What is meant by a clinical trial? What is meant exactly by routine patient care costs, and how will they be determined?”

Dr. Klausner said a committee has been established within the Department of Health and Human Services to resolve these and other issues.