Lahinch GP Feels Even Increased Family Doctor Numbers Will Struggle With Growing Population

A Lahinch GP believes even increased numbers of general practicioners will struggle to deal with Irelands's growing population. It comes after over 1,300 people applied to train as family Doctors in 2023, the highest number ever, while the number of places has been increased by 20 per cent on last year. Currently, however, there are 2,000 fewer GPs than the country needs and it will take at least four years before these new applicants can join the workforce. IMO GP Committee Member, Dr Michael Kelleher, says maintaining GP numbers required to meet the needs of the growing Irish population will be difficult.