The Rural Independent Group of TDs will introduce a Dáil Motion this Wednesday, urging immediate action to address the critical shortages in General Practice across rural Ireland. The group says the situation has deteriorated over the last four years. An estimated 66% of rural GPs are currently unable to accept new patients, with some experiencing waiting times of up to two weeks for appointments, as highlighted in a survey conducted by the Irish Independent.
Deputy Mattie McGrath says this is resulting in delayed diagnoses and treatments.
The motion is calling for the establishment of a high-level Ministerial working group to devise immediate, medium-term, and long-term solutions. The current Dublin-centric approach is neglecting rural healthcare, and that must change according to Deputy McGrath.
The knock on effects are also evident according the Deputy McGrath as he highlights that “General Practice is the backbone of Ireland’s healthcare system.”
The Rural Independent Group is inviting all TDs to support the motion and recognize the pressing need for action.
