Dr. Edel McGinnity:

An issue is that, given the volume of work and the complications in working in areas of disadvantage, there is a high rate of GP burnout. A committee member mentioned that he or she did not see us often. We are all in practices where we have the support of colleagues. It is not possible to work as a GP single-handedly in a disadvantaged area. One needs considerable support from one's practice and primary care teams. That is why the old model whereby a GP set up shop in a house on an estate does not work. It happens often in Blanchardstown, but GPs cannot manage it. As Professor Smith stated, one cannot pilot a whole team with salaried GPs. It must be based on existing practices.