SDLP Health Spokesperson Mark H Durkan has expressed concern at figures published by the Health and Social Care Business Services Organisation today which show a marked decrease in GP Practices across Northern Ireland since 2014.
The Foyle MLA said that the reduction in practices in communities west of the Bann presented a particular challenge that should be addressed by advancing plans for a Graduate Entry Medical School at Magee.
He said: “The figures released by the Business Services Organisation today are deeply concerning and paint a picture of reduced GP services in communities across the North serving greater numbers of patients.
“That raises very serious challenges around sustainability, staff workloads and access to services.
“The problem is particularly pronounced in communities west of the Bann where we know there has been a significant challenge around retaining GPs and sustaining practices.
“Worryingly, despite an increase in the overall number of GPs, the areas where we’ve seen a reduction in practices have been the least able to recruit new doctors, creating a downward spiral in service provision.
“This again underscores the need for a Graduate Entry Medical School in the North West, creating a steady supply of qualified medical professionals with experience in the communities most in need,” added Mr Durkan.
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