Call for HSE transparency on Mayo rural GP controversy

A Mayo Oireachtas member has raised his voice in support of the community of Lahardane and its concerns about the departure of their local GP and the proposed amalgamation of Lahardane and Crossmolina practices by the HSE.

Deputy Alan Dillon said: "The emergency public meeting on Saturday brought together a community left in shock by the news of their local GP's departure and the HSE's plan to amalgamate Lahardane and Crossmolina practices.

"For over a century, Lahardane has had a local GP, and now, in 2023, it is facing the grim prospect of having none. This is simply unacceptable."

Regarding the responsibility of the HSE in the matter, Deputy Dillon emphasised" "The responsibility here primarily falls on the HSE. Their duty is clear: to be transparent, accountable, and to meet the healthcare needs of their local community.

"It's baffling that the HSE didn't consider a locum GP as an interim solution for Lahardane.

"It's a common-sense approach that could have kept their healthcare service intact while they search for a permanent replacement.

"This omission is yet another example of the HSE dropping the ball and failing to prioritise the needs of the Lahardane community.

"Instead, they've seemingly prioritised accommodating the former GP's expansion into Crossmolina over the welfare of the community.

"The HSE has indeed dropped the ball here, failing to gauge the fear and anger in our community and I’m going to make sure they answer for this oversight and rectify it swiftly."

Deputy Dillon added: "I've also engaged with Community Healthcare West, and they expressed surprise upon learning of a GP interested in the post.

"As of last Monday evening, no viable options were available; no individual GP had come forward — this is the stark reality that has brought us to this critical juncture.

"Community Healthcare West did indicate that this GP's expression of interest has presented new possibilities for the HSE.

"Despite extensive advertising efforts on two occasions, no applicants were received.

"I've been informed that this potential GP may not initially be set up to accommodate GMS panel patients, however, they are actively reviewing this aspect.

"The Primary Care Reimbursement Service is also undergoing a review, and the HSE is exploring various options."

Furthermore, Deputy Dillon expressed his proactive approach to address the situation, stating: "I've offered to chair a crucial meeting involving the HSE and local Lahardane stakeholders, aiming to establish a clear plan of action.

"I will be working to schedule this meeting in the coming days with all key stakeholders and elected representatives.

"We need to reinstate the GMS panel for any future GP applicants and ensure that the position is properly advertised to attract potential candidates to Lahardane."

When asked about the concerns regarding the merger of Addergoole Medical Centre with Crossmolina, Deputy Dillon said: "The idea of merging Lahardane and Crossmolina into one practice, with a significantly larger population, is nothing short of a crisis waiting to happen It's essential to rural communities like Lahardane that we have adequate healthcare facilities."

In conclusion, Deputy Dillon reassured the community of Lahardane of his commitment to addressing this crisis, demanding accountability from the HSE, and ensuring that every individual in Lahardane continues to have easy access to a trustworthy GP service.