NHS 111 helpline, which has received a lot of criticism from patients as well as from experts, is going to get introduced in Wales.

The Welsh Government said that they have been thinking to replace NHS Direct Wales with the 111 helpline service. Health Minister Mark Drakeford has been discussing the option with experts.

A number of changes are expected to take like few services will be used that will support the 111 service in Wales. All these changes are said to be implemented by this year.

Authorities concerned said that all these changes will be made under the supervision of Dr Chris Jones, Chairman of Cwm Taf Health Board.

A few days back, Welsh Government was faced with a problem that a rise in A&E departments has been witnessed. Prof Drakeford said that the condition deteriorated to such a level that the emergency services in Wales was at the verge of meltdown.

It is expected that with the introduction of non-emergency helpline service, unnecessary visits at A&E departments will get reduced. "This is a real opportunity in Wales to have an integrated service, working closely with the ambulance service and particularly social care colleagues", said Charlotte Jones, a member of the Cymru's GPs' committee.