GPs call for more integrated approach to health care

A group of doctors have written an open letter calling for a more integrated approach to health care.

The letter, signed by 25 consultants and GPs from across the country, blasts what it describes as the 'systematic failure' to address long-standing problems in the health system, such as understaffing.

They want better communication between GPs and hospitals, and improved access for patients to services.

"It's about getting integration, there are places where this will work - it's a combination of some extra staff plus appropriate integration," says Kerry GP Eamon Shanahan, who's amongst the co-signors.

"The difficulty is that there is a cap on recruitment in the health services."