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Staff, patients, fundraisers and volunteers attended the event – with the first baby born on the NHS also paying tribute to the “phenomenal” service.
Mrs Thomas, the first baby born on the NHS at 12.01am on July 5 in 1948, spoke of her pride at its achievements.
The retired nurse laid flowers at a busy of Aneurin Bevan within the cathedral.
“Tomorrow I am 70,” she told the service. “I was born at the Amman Valley Hospital in Carmarthenshire at one minute past midnight.
“I was the first baby born into the NHS. Aneurin Bevan’s vision in founding a national health service changed how we live our lives.
“I’m proud to be here today to celebrate the 70th anniversary of this phenomenal service that is available to us at the point of need.”
She described NHS staff as “true heroes” and, addressing those in the cathedral, said: “I salute you all, thank you for making the difference”.
Prince Charles was pictured smiling and laughing as he met Mrs Thomas.
First minister Carwyn Jones described how, before July 5 in 1948, workers had to pay a weekly sub for access to a doctor.
“I’m proud of Wales’s strong historical links to the creation of the health service,” Mr Jones told the congregation.
“The NHS in Wales remains committed to delivering on [Aneurin] Bevan’s founding principles every day.”
June Osborne, the bishop of Llandaff, said the 70th year of the NHS marked a time for reflection.
“The NHS has become an essential part of our national identity,” she said.
“Long may the daily gifts that are offered within this beloved institution endure. Such gifts create common good.”
Welsh musician Mike Peters sang in the service, while Welsh poets Casia Wiliam and Gilian Clarke read poems marking the anniversary of the NHS.
Following the blessing by the Archbishop of Wales, John Davies, Charles signed the cathedral’s visitor book.
He also met winners of the NHS 70 children’s drawing competition and presented them with a Royal Mint coin to commemorate the anniversary.
The prince left the cathedral to a guard of honour including Mrs Thomas and NHS staff.
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