Community effort pays-off as revival of Mayo GP practice is "imminent"
By Caoimhín Rowland
Mayo Fine Gael Deputy Michael Ring has confirmed that the long-awaited reopening of the local G.P. Surgery is on the horizon. The Rural Ireland Organisation’s leader, Gerry Loftus a key advocate for the initiative, revealed that a full-time doctor is set to take up the position within the next few weeks.
This positive news follows persistent efforts by Deputy Ring, Gerry Loftus and women in the rural north Mayo who maintained constant communication with the HSE to address the urgent need for a G.P. in Lahardane.
Acknowledging the collaborative approach, Deputy Ring commended both the HSE's dedication and the Lahardane community's commitment to restoring vital healthcare services.
The Fine Gael TD also spoke about the work behind the scenes in the Lahardane community, “not alone did they protest strongly to the HSE but the Women’s Community Group kept the surgery open every single morning. The drive and sheer determination shown by this community is to be strongly admired. They ran a tremendous campaign and their hard work has paid off”.
Gerry Loftus, Leader of the Rural Ireland Organisation, provided additional details, confirming that contracts with both the practice nurse and the G.P. have been signed.
This significant milestone paves the way for the much-anticipated commencement of services, expected within the next few weeks. Loftus noted that the only remaining step is the furnishing of the G.P. Surgery with necessary equipment, after which an official start date will be announced.
The Lahardane community can expect improved access to primary healthcare services, with preparations underway for the full-time doctor to assume responsibilities in late January or early February.
The commitment of all involved parties, including the Rural Ireland Organisation, Deputy Michael Ring, the HSE and members of the Lahardane community reflects a unified effort to prioritise the health and well-being of Lahardane residents.
Potential patients have been informed they can begin to request that their files return to Lahardane while preparations are underway to get the clinic ready for patients in the coming weeks.
“Anyone that wishes to become a patient of the G.P. surgery in Lahardane will be able to arrange for their file to be transferred to the surgery,” stated Deputy Ring.