(1) "Department" means the Department of Health.

(2) "Evidence-based" means based on criteria and guidelines that reflect high-quality, cost-effective care. The methodology used to determine such guidelines shall meet recognized standards for systematic evaluation of all available research and shall be free from conflicts of interest. Consideration of the best available scientific evidence does not preclude consideration of experimental or investigational treatment or services under a clinical investigation approved by an institutional review board. (Added 2007, No. 80, § 14; amended 2009, No. 156 (Adj. Sess.), § I.21.)