Over recent years there has been steady growth in both the number of prescription items and the total cost. The annual item count has risen from around 1.18 billion in 2022/23 to 1.21 billion in 2023/24, then 1.26 billion in 2024/25 and 1.30 billion in 2025/26. “We are seeing sustained growth in the number of prescription items each year, and that translates directly into workload. In London specifically, Diabetes UK research shows approximately 298,000 diabetes diagnoses, placing additional strain on prescription spending in the capital. “Ultimately, the growing prescription total reflects an ageing population, more chronic conditions and greater reliance on medication.