Stephen Donnelly
Ceist:92. Deputy Stephen S. Donnelly asked the Minister for Health the status of the negotiation of a new general practitioner contract; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50800/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraWednesday, 5 December 2018
Ceisteanna (92)
Freagraí scríofa
The Department and HSE recommenced engagement with the Irish Medical Organisation in early October on a package of measures comprising service improvements and contractual modernisation and reform.
The goal is to develop a contractual framework that has a population health focus, providing in particular for health promotion, disease prevention and for the structured care of chronic conditions. This will enable general practitioners to better meet the needs of patients and will also promote general practice as a viable and rewarding career for both existing doctors and future medical graduates.
Agreement on the delivery of these service improvements and contractual reforms has the potential to facilitate a substantial increase in the resourcing of general practice on a multiannual basis.
In line with the long established approach to such processes, and by agreement of the parties concerned, I am not in a position to give further details at this stage.