Date: July 16th, 2018
Agency: Federal, HHS
Explanation: Budget Cuts
Scientist: Other
On July 16, 2018, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) removed an online medical guidelines database. The database, known as the National Guideline Clearinghouse (NGC), was established in 1998. It was thought to be the world’s most comprehensive online repository of medical guidelines reflecting the latest scientific research on the diagnosis, management, and treatment of medical conditions.
A statement on AHRQ’s website indicates that the NGC was removed due to a lack of funding. AHRQ stated:
“The contract that supports the NGC ends this month and funds are not available to continue support for the NGC.
AHRQ’s decision to close the NGC has elicited significant feedback from the health care field, and the Agency appreciates the passionate support that users have expressed. AHRQ is exploring options to support the NGC in the future and will continue to do so even while the site remains offline.”