Pharmacists will soon be able to extend a prescription up to 12 months

The life of a prescription will soon be extended!

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Plans have been unveiled to allow pharmacists to extend prescriptions up to 12 months.

Its part of measures to enhance the role of pharmacists and limit the pressure on GP services.

The Irish Independent reports that the initiative was announced today by Health Minister Stephen Donnelly.

It will come into effect from March 1st, of next year, and will cut down on patient costs and GP visits.

The extension will also mean many patients are able to continue medications without the need for a repeat prescription.

At the moment, under law, doctors are only allowed to issue prescriptions up to 6 months.

Dr. Ilona Duffy says it's a very welcome move and it's ideal for prescriptions "such as the oral contraceptive pill and other medications that don't require any more regular monitoring." 

However, it won't be possible in every instance.