Unkind cuts - GP shortages

BALLYHEIGUE in Co Kerry is one of the most scenically beautiful parts of Ireland. 

Yet, as they say in those parts, “you can’t eat scenery”. That is already clear to many of those who live in rural Ireland but, now, even members of the heretofore affluent medical profession are beginning to feel the pinch.

Government cuts in medical card scheme allowances have slashed resources to general practice. That will have some effect on medical practices in our towns and cities but is already devastating more remote regions where the local doctor has long been considered an essential component to rural living.

While many members of the medical profession consider their work to be a vocation, the harsh economic realities cannot be ignored. There are about 30 vacancies in rural medical practices. The latest is in Ballyheigue where not a single applicant has applied to replace an emigrating doctor.

With other services such as transport and communications already in short supply, the absence of a local doctor will make rural life practically unbearable.