New NHS campaign to tackle medicine waste in North Yorkshire
Patients urged to only order what they need
A new campaign has been launched across Humber and North Yorkshire to tackle the growing problem of medicine waste and encourage patients to only order repeat prescriptions they genuinely need.
The initiative, called Only Order What You Need, highlights the financial, environmental, and safety costs of unused medicines. NHS Humber and North Yorkshire Integrated Care Board (ICB) estimates that around £26 million worth of medicines are wasted annually in the region—money that could be reinvested into vital health services.
Every year, approximately £332 million is spent on medicines locally, with £265 million of this on repeat prescriptions. Once dispensed, unused medicines cannot be reused or recycled and are typically incinerated, adding to both financial strain and environmental impact.
Dr Nigel Wells, Executive Director of Clinical and Professional at the ICB, said:
“Each of us can play our part in bringing this waste down. By being more mindful about the medicines we order and use, we can look after NHS resources and help ensure they’re available for those who need them, when they need them.”
The six-week campaign will run across GP practices, pharmacies, and digital platforms. It is primarily aimed at patients over 65 and those aged 45 and over with long-term conditions.
The ICB is urging people to take simple steps such as checking their medicine supplies before reordering, only requesting items they truly need, and seeking advice from their pharmacist or GP if they have questions.