I propose to take Questions Nos. 478 to 480, inclusive, together.
Under the General Medical Services (GMS) Scheme, Circular 13/72, Appendix B (x) sets out the criteria for the awarding of a Rural Practice Allowance to a GMS doctor. The circular states that "where a doctor lives or practises in a centre with a population of less than 500 and where there is not a town with a population of 1,500 or more within a three mile radius of that centre the doctor will be entitled to special rural practice concessions", including a Rural Practice Allowance. The term "centre" is not defined in the circular.
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.
As the other matters raised by the Deputy are service issues, I have asked the Health Service Executive to reply directly to the Deputy on these matters. If you have not received a reply from the HSE within 15 working days please contact my Private Office and they will follow up the matter with them.