The Royal College of Physicians this week unveiled plans to measure the progress of NHS services against the national service framework for coronary heart disease. The pilot scheme - funded by the National Institute for Clinical Excellence - will be rolled out to cover all acute hospitals offering cardiac services within about 18 months. Dr Mike Pearson, head of the RCP's clinical effectiveness and evaluation unit, said hospitals which had 'not given much thought to the organisation of their care systems'would have the most difficulties meeting framework targets.

Acute Myocardial Infarction: a core data set for monitoring standards of care. The Royal College of Physicians. www.rcplondon.ac.uk/ceeu-ami-home.htm