Call for more support for rural GPs

THE new generation of GPs want to work in group practices with flexible working conditions, according to Dr. Martin Daly. The newly elected TD was commenting on the recent report about GPs emigrating from the country.

A report reveals that up to 30 per cent of newly qualified doctors emigrate to countries like the UK and Australia each year. The training of each GP costs up to €30,000 of the taxpayers’ money.

The report also suggests that difficulties in operating in rural Ireland and the high cost of setting up a general practice are the reasons behind the large number of GPs emigrating.

A general practitioner himself, Deputy Daly agrees that it is difficult for GPs to operate in rural areas or find a replacement in case they want to take a few days of holidays, sick leave or educational leave.

Read the story in this week's edition of The Tuam Herald