Statement welcoming the introduction of free prescriptions in Northern Ireland
01 April 2010

Joan O’Hagan, Director of Asthma UK Northern Ireland, says: ‘The introduction of free prescriptions will transform the lives of many people with asthma across Northern Ireland, many of whom have struggled to afford their medicines because of the cost.

‘We know that people with asthma who can’t afford their prescriptions cope in a variety of ways, for example stretching medicines, choosing between different items or completely avoiding using their medicines. This puts them at risk of life-threatening asthma attacks and emergency hospital visits, which across the UK, costs the NHS tens of millions of pounds every year.

‘This change in policy will therefore ensure that the 146,000 adults with asthma in Northern Ireland receive fair and equal access to the medicines they need to stay well and help reduce the burden of this condition on their lives.’

Ends

1. For further information, contact the Asthma UK media office on 020 7786 4949 or at mediaoffice@asthma.org.uk
2. Asthma UK is the charity dedicated to improving the health and well-being of 5.4 million people in the UK whose lives are affected by asthma.
3. More than 182,000 people in Northern Ireland have asthma: 146,000 adults and 36,000 children.
4. For up-to-date news on asthma, information and publications, visit the Asthma UK website asthma.org.uk
5. For independent and confidential advice on asthma, call the Asthma UK Adviceline, which is staffed by asthma nurse specialists. It is open weekdays from 9am to 5pm on 0800 121 62 44. Or email an asthma nurse at asthma.org.uk/adviceline