Cost of building new practices beyond many GPs, conference told

Dr Diarmuid Quinlan, a GP in Cork said shortages are 'particularly acute in rural areas' but insisted that most GPs keep same-day slots for urgent care. File picture: Eddie O'Hare

GPs need support to open new practices as the financial cost of building their workplace is beyond many now, the Irish College of GPs said.

These costs are a real barrier for young doctors at a time when GP numbers are just over 4,000, falling short of the 6,000 needed, warned Dr Diarmuid Quinlan, medical director.