Strong local uptake of kids’ free GP scheme

OVER seven in ten doctors in Dublin West and Dublin North West have signed up to provide free GP care to under 6s, according to fresh figures released last week.

The national average stands at 51 per cent for GPs signed up for the scheme. Figures for Dublin West and Dublin North West are 71 and 73 per cent respectively.

Tánaiste and local Labour TD, Joan Burton, welcomed the figures, describing them as a vote of confidence in the initiative.

“In Dublin West, 30 contracts out of a total of 42 have been returned by doctors to the HSE,

? she said.

“It is a good indication that local doctors believe in the initiative and they agree with the principle that no parent should have to think twice about bringing their sick child to the doctor.

?

Parents are able to sign their children up to the scheme from this week through public registration with the HSE and the service itself begins on July 1.

“The provision of free GP care to young families has been a key focus for the Labour Party since we came into government,

? the Tánaiste added.

“The fact that we are now at this juncture is very welcome indeed, and I look forward to further progress in the near future.

?

Figures for Dublin North Central show a 59 per cent take up and the only Northside area below the national average is North Dublin at 47 per cent to date.

In other local health related news, Roselawn Health Centre is to get a

?¬1 million renovation to enable it to expand and develop its community services.

The refurbished centre will continue providing GP services but will now also offer physiotherapy, occupational therapy, dental and speech & language treatments.

Meanwhile construction of Corduff’s long awaited Primary Health Centre at Blackcourt Road is progressing well. The

?¬8 million project is now due to be up and running by March 2016.

The centre will provide accommodation for two GPs and two dental practices. There will be a special focus on children’s health, including a child and adolescent mental health team.