A recent analysis of GP supply and demand has highlighted capacity challenges in Dublin and nearby commuter towns such as Cavan, Meath, Kildare, Louth, Westmeath, and Wicklow, where populations are growing, reports RTE.
It also warns that GP retirements in parts of Clare, Mayo, Wexford, and other regions pose a threat to healthcare access, especially in areas where no suitable replacements are currently available.
The report, titled ‘General Practice in Ireland: An analysis of Supply and Demand’, was released today and compiled by the Government’s Economic and Evaluation Service within the Department of Health, reports RTE.
The research identified a total of 3,262 clinically active GPs in Ireland as of 2022.
It revealed that 13% of GPs are working 48 hours or more each week, reports RTE.
According to the study, while the overall national GP and practice nurse workforce provides fairly widespread coverage, some locations—particularly those with expanding or ageing populations—are facing significant strain.
The report pointed out that poor planning for GP retirements could disrupt services in some regions, especially where single-doctor practices make up a large portion of the risk group, reports RTE.
It suggested that these issues could be resolved by 2030, thanks to the increasing number of GPs entering the system.
The study projects that by 2030, close to 4,000 new graduates and overseas recruits will join the profession, offsetting the anticipated retirement or resignation of over 1,000 GPs, reports RTE.
It further advises that more GP nurses and midwives should be hired and that their roles be expanded.
Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeill stated that the Government will ensure that more healthcare professionals are deployed to areas experiencing shortages.
The full review is expected to be completed within a few months, reports RTE.
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