Which institution recommends the treatments that the NHS should and should not provide?

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) is responsible for recommending which treatments the NHS should provide. NICE plays a critical role in the healthcare system by evaluating the clinical and cost-effectiveness of various treatments, medications, and healthcare interventions. Their guidelines help ensure that patients receive appropriate care based on the best available evidence, promoting efficient use of resources within the NHS. By systematically analyzing the benefits and risks of treatments and considering their economic implications, NICE aids in making informed decisions about healthcare provisions, which forms the foundation for the NHS's commissioning of services.

The other institutions mentioned, such as the Care Quality Commission, National Health Service, and General Medical Council, serve different roles in the healthcare ecosystem. The Care Quality Commission focuses on monitoring and regulating healthcare services’ quality and safety, while the National Health Service oversees the provision of health services. The General Medical Council sets standards for medical practice and ethics. However, none have the specific mandate of evaluating and recommending treatment options as NICE does.