Medicines identified as low value for prescribing in NHS Wales (2026 review) (consultation)

We would welcome your comments on the draft Medicines Identified as Low Value for Prescribing in NHS Wales (2026 review) and the associated equality and health impact assessment (EqHIA) form.

The All Wales Medicines Strategy Group (AWMSG) endorsed low value for prescribing guidance provides advice ‎to prescribers and health boards in Wales to reduce the use of medicines that should not be routinely prescribed as either more cost‑effective alternatives exist, evidence for the medicine’s clinical effectiveness is limited, or the medicine may possibly pose a risk of harm to patients.

This work was incorporated within the AWMSG endorsed Value-based Prescribing programme in 2022 which aims to deliver meaningful change in the use of medicines and resources for patients within Wales. A task and finish group, with representation from all health boards, reviewed the existing recommendations. The background information for each recommendation has been reviewed and where relevant updated. For some medicines, the task and finish group felt that a more in-depth literature review needed to be conducted. These have been included as appendices within the paper.  

The document, associated EqHIA form and feedback form can be accessed below.

Closing date: Thursday 21 May 2026