Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 9 May 2024
312. Deputy Pauline Tully asked the Minister for Health the number of applications received for a GP vacancy in Cavan (details supplied); the number of these applications that are to be progressed to interview stage; the timeframe for the interview process to take place; the timeframe for a GP to be appointed to this role; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21115/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraGPs are self-employed practitioners and therefore may establish practices at a place of their own choosing. The State does not regulate the number of GPs that can set up in a town or community.
Under the GMS scheme, the HSE contracts GPs to provide medical services without charge to medical card and GP visit card holders. Where a vacancy arises in a practice with a GMS contract, the HSE becomes actively involved in the recruitment process to find a replacement GP. In the interim the HSE puts in place a locum or other appropriate arrangement to maintain GP services to the communities in question.
As the issue of GMS vacancies is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to the Deputy directly regarding the recruitment process for the vacancy in Swanlinbar, Co. Cavan as soon as possible.
