Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 31 January 2023
722. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Health the reason a GMS panel might be frozen when a doctor relocates retires or resigns from the GMS scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4629/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraUnder 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 selection process to find a replacement GP.
GMS panels may be frozen prior to a post becoming vacant and for a period of 3 months after the vacant post has been filled. This helps ensure that the GMS list does not diminish and is still attractive to entice a new GP to apply for the vacant position permanently and to make the panel viable.
After the period concerned, GMS patients may apply to change their GP in the normal fashion through the HSE website.
