The new HSE National Service Plan 2025 (NSP) confirms an “effective recruitment freeze remains in place”, the IMO has claimed. The Organisation also warned the NSP will see “no significant increase in capacity with just 300 beds planned for the coming year”.
The IMO also claimed the healthcare measures within the new Programme for Government lacked “any detail on resources or implementation dates” and are, in many cases, a repeat of previous commitments that have not been met.
“Our health services need to be a priority for the incoming Government and if this Programme for Government is to mean anything we must very quickly see a detailed implementation plan with a corresponding commitment to funding,” said Dr Denis McCauley, IMO President.
“Doctors and other healthcare professionals are struggling to deliver care in environments that are under-resourced, under-staffed and under pressure. Patients all around the country are facing problems accessing care whether that be in general practice, mental health services, acute hospital services or community services.”
He said the IMO has long campaigned for adequate capacity, a funded medical workforce plan and investment in general practice.
“We will be seeking to urgently engage with the incoming Minister for Health in terms of implementation and a realistic multi-annual funding programme for our health services that meets the needs of the population and allows doctors to deliver timely care.”
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