Despite a substantial investment in healthcare, certain groups of people still encounter barriers when accessing healthcare services due to living in rural Ireland, it has been claimed.
Kenmare local elections candidate Catherina O’Sullivan said, for example, SouthDoc in Killorglin closed during the Covid pandemic and has not reopened.
“People of the surrounding areas for example Glenbeigh, Beaufort, Milltown, Glencar and Cromane have to travel a substantial distance to access SouthDoc in Killarney,” she said.
She also highlighted that the shortage of GPs is a pressing issue that significantly compromises access to primary healthcare services for residents in these areas. With an ageing population and an increasing demand for healthcare services, the scarcity of GPs exacerbates existing challenges, leaving rural communities underserved and vulnerable, she maintained.
Drawing from her extensive experience as a clinical nurse manager in mental health, Ms O’Sullivan emphasised the importance of tailored healthcare reforms to address the unique needs of rural areas.
She said Ireland faces a significant exodus of healthcare professionals, driven by better salaries and working conditions abroad.
“To retain talent, Ireland must offer competitive salaries, improved working conditions, and a supportive culture that values healthcare contributions,” she remarked.
“Let’s remember, our doctors treat the whole patient, not just symptoms. It’s time for our government to do the same.”
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