Rapid population growth in Kildare and surrounding counties could strain local GP services, with retirements and capacity issues raising concerns for future healthcare access
A new government report has raised concerns about GP shortages in Kildare and other commuter counties, highlighting growing pressure on healthcare services due to rising populations.
The analysis, General Practice in Ireland: An Analysis of Supply and Demand, published by the Department of Health’s Economic and Evaluation Service, identifies Kildare as one of several counties—alongside Meath, Louth, Wicklow, Cavan and Westmeath—experiencing capacity constraints in general practice.
The study found that while there are currently over 3,260 clinically active GPs nationwide, areas like Kildare, with both growing and ageing populations, may struggle to meet future demand. It also warns that a lack of succession planning, particularly in single-GP practices, could further strain services.
However, the report offers some reassurance, projecting that nearly 4,000 new GPs—through graduates and international recruitment—will enter the workforce by 2030, offsetting expected retirements.
Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeill said the Government is committed to ensuring healthcare staff are deployed where they are needed most. The final review of the GP system is expected in the coming months.
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