Welsh Gov marks 18th anniversary of free prescriptions in Wales

On April 1st,  the Welsh Labour Government marked the 18^th anniversary of free prescriptions in Wales.

Since 2007, people of all ages all over Wales have been entitled to free prescriptions, with the Welsh Labour Government leading the rest of the UK in introducing this groundbreaking health measure – Northern Ireland and Scotland followed in 2010 and 2011, respectively.

In an average day, GPs in Wales prescribe more than 230,000 items which are dispensed by pharmacies. Community pharmacies also provide some 950 consultations every day as part of the Common Ailments Scheme.

The landmark free prescriptions anniversary comes as the Welsh Labour Government’s Final Budget was passed by the Senedd last month, securing £26bn for communities, services and businesses across Wales, including the NHS in Wales.

The Budget protects free prescriptions and will help to reduce waiting times for people across Wales.

Cabinet Secretary for Health Jeremy Miles said:

“NHS Wales and community pharmacies touch thousands of people’s lives across Wales every single day. Free prescriptions are vital in ensuring everyone has access to the medication they need, when they need it.

“This Welsh Labour Government is committed to backing free prescriptions and the NHS in Wales. Wales made the NHS and Welsh Labour will always protect it.

“Only the Welsh Labour Government will deliver for Wales.”