General Practitioner Contracts

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 13 October 2015

Tuesday, 13 October 2015

Questions (328)

Billy Kelleher

Question:

328. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health if he will increase the rural practice allowance for general practitioners; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35748/15]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Health

Under the February 2015 Memorandum of Understanding between the Department of Health, the Health Service Executive and the Irish Medical Organisation (IMO), talks are continuing on a new GMS GP contract. It is envisaged that the review of the GMS contract and other publicly funded health sector contracts with GPs will include consideration of how best to support General Practice in urban/deprived and rural areas so as to best meet the needs of patients with regard to the provision of general practitioner services. The Rural Practice Allowance, including any change to the existing criteria and payment rate, will be considered as a part of these discussions.