The Department of Health has launched a public consultation on
the sustainable and cost-effective use of medicines in Northern
Ireland.
The consultation on ‘Valuing Medicines: A Strategy for the
Sustainable Use of Medicines in Northern Ireland' will seek views
on proposals aimed at supporting improvements in the use of
medicines within the Health and Social Care system, ensuring they
add value to health, are cost-effective, and sustainable.
Health Minister, said: “To continue
meeting the needs of our population, we must work together to
make the best use of medicines. With annual medicines expenditure
in Northern Ireland now reaching £875 million, it is vital that
we focus on sustainable solutions that ensure access to
innovative treatments and technologies for generations to
come.”
Chief Pharmaceutical Officer, Professor Cathy Harrison said:
“Medicines have a vital role in helping to prevent, treat, and
cure disease. They are our most common medical intervention and
are relied upon to support health and wellbeing throughout life.
“It is also important that we seek to make positive changes in
relation to the environmental impact of medicines. By reducing
waste and lowering the carbon footprint of medicines we can align
our efforts with broader climate action goals and protect our
environment and health for the future.
“The Valuing Medicines Strategy outlines a clear vision for
achieving these goals. It promotes the sustainable use of
medicines and seeks to build a culture where medicines are truly
valued within both the public and the Health and Social Care
system.
“I would encourage the public, healthcare professionals, and
stakeholders to share their views and help shape this important
work."
The Department is inviting feedback from all interested parties
on the recommendations outlined in the strategy under four key
themes:
Equitable Access to Medicines – Ensuring patients have equitable
access to appropriate, safe, and cost-effective medicines.
Patient-Centred Care – Involving patients in decisions about
their medicines, promoting preventive care, and offering options
alongside prescribed medicines.
Environmental Sustainability – Reducing waste and the
environmental impact of medicines.
Innovation and Improvement – Driving improvement through data,
technology, research and innovation.
The consultation will run for 12 weeks and close on 26 February
2025.
Further details, including how to respond, can be found on the
Department of Health website at: https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/consultations/consultation-valuing-medicines-strategy-sustainable-use-medicines-northern-ireland
