14/04/2015

Sinn Féin Calls For Universal Free GP Care Roll Out

Free GP care for under sixes must be followed by universal free GP access in the earliest possible time frame, Sinn Féin health spokesperson Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin TD has said.

Deputy Ó Caoláin referenced a WHO report from 2012, which he said "recognised that Ireland was the only EU country that did not offer universal coverage of primary care", and said that the present government had failed to ensure that the majority of the population that currently do not have access to medical cards or GP visit cards have free GP care extended to them.

"Universal primary care must be extended to all in the earliest possible timeframe. It is essential that the rollout for the rest of the population is time framed and achieved within a very limited frame of time," Deputy Ó Caoláin said.

"The period of time that has already gone by is part of the clock ticking. It is critical that the Minister now indicate the time frame for the rest of the population.

"GPs are individual practitioners and it remains to be seen whether they sign up in adequate numbers to ensure ease of access locally for young families across the state."

(MH/CD)

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