Nearly 6,000 contact HSE for help finding a GP this year
Nearly 6,000 people in Ireland have sought assistance from the HSE to find a GP this year, highlighting a growing shortage of doctors. Data shows that population growth is significantly outpacing the increase in public GP services.
Why it matters
The shortage of public GPs raises concerns about healthcare accessibility and the sustainability of the Irish public health system.
Almost 6,000 people have contacted the Health Service Executive already this year seeking help in finding a GP.
New figures also indicate that while Ireland's population increased by around 10% between 2020 and 2025, the total number of GPs increased by just 6.4%, as population growth continues to outstrip growth in services, creating a deficit of doctors to meet patient needs.
The number of GPs treating patients with medical cards has risen by just 2.3% between 2020 and 2025, although the number of GPs entering private practice has increased by 26.8%.
Just 59 GPs have signed up to provide care under the General Medical Services (GMS) scheme for patients with medical cards and GP visit cards since 2020.
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