As Wales marks 18 years as the first UK nation to abolish
prescription charges, forty-four-year-old Ryan Perrot who has
severe asthma shares how the policy helped change his life.
Since 2007, Welsh pharmacies have dispensed more than one billion
items, helping millions manage their health conditions
effectively and free of charge.
Charges were abolished as costs were preventing a third of people
from getting their prescribed medication.
People with chronic conditions reported cutting back on food and
bills to afford medication, leading to worsening health,
increased GP visits and hospital admissions.
Key facts show that:
- More than 313,000 items are prescribed by GPs and dispensed
by pharmacies free of charge every working day
- Free prescriptions support thousands with chronic conditions,
like asthma, Parkinson's disease and ulcerative colitis, to
access the medicines they need every year
- Welsh residents save nearly £10 for each prescription item
they receive in Wales
Ryan Perrot from Brecon has had severe chronic asthma since he
was three and previously spent over £1000 on medication every
year.
Speaking about the impact that free prescriptions have
had on him, Ryan said:
"Free prescriptions haven't just saved me
money—they've extended my life.
“Before, I'd end up in hospital, missing work, limiting my food
shop because I couldn't afford my medication. Now, I can
manage my condition better, I take daily tablets and inhalers
without the worry of choosing between breathing and eating.
“It's enabled me to work and pursue hobbies and most precious of
all, play with my grandson, something I thought I wouldn't be
around to do.
“People with chronic conditions shouldn't have to pay to
breathe—something so basic that most take for granted.”
By removing cost barriers, people who need regular
medication are more likely to obtain and take the medication they
need, contributing to better health outcomes.
Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care, said:
“Free prescriptions are one of Wales' greatest healthcare
achievements to date.
“I'm proud that we led the UK in taking this bold step, ensuring
everyone, regardless of their financial circumstances, can get
the medication they need.
“Over 18 years, this policy has transformed so many people's
lives, helped thousands manage their conditions effectively, and
prevented unnecessary hospital admissions. Healthcare should be
based on clinical need, and this is what free prescriptions are
about.
“As we look to the future, we are committed to this principle,
it's served the people of Wales so well."
Notes to editors
- Chief Pharmaceutical Officer for Wales, Andrew Evans, will be
available for interviews. Please contact hss-pressteam@gov.wales for
information.
- Anyone registered with a Welsh GP who gets their prescription
dispensed in Wales receives their medication without
charge.
- Research by the Prescription Charges Coalition found 33% of
people (1,386 of 4,264 people surveyed) with long-term conditions
who pay for their prescriptions stated that they had previously
not collected a prescription from the pharmacy due to the cost.
Source: Still-Paying-the-Price-June-2017-online.pdf
- Responses to a 2013 survey conducted by the Prescription
Charges Coalition identified that the cost of prescriptions has a
significant impact on general wellbeing, with many respondents
reporting doing without essentials such as food, clothing, rent
and utility bills. Source: Layout 1
