Tories propose £10 fine for missed NHS appointments

Charging patients for missed NHS appointments would create a disincentive for people who frequently do not turn up, Welsh Conservative Shadow Minister for Health Darren Millar claims.

His party has said it would introduce a £10 fine for repeat offenders if they win power at next year's assembly elections in a pilot programme.

New figures reveal 1.2m appointments were missed at Welsh hospitals alone in the last three years.

The party said that not only wastes time but costs the NHS around £60m a year.

Health Minister Mark Drakeford said while people have a responsibility to attend appointments, a fine would be complicated to bring in.