Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry South, Independent)
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To ask the Minister for Health the position regarding replacement doctors (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47712/12]

Alex White (Dublin South, Labour)
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A General Medical Services (GMS) panel can become vacant for a number of reasons, some of which can be foreseen and planned for, such as retirements or resignations, and others may arise due to unforeseen circumstances, for example sudden death or sudden incapacity of a general practitioner (GP).

In the case of foreseen/planned vacancies, the HSE will endeavour to put appropriate arrangements in place in advance of the GP retiring/resigning.Retirements can be planned for well in advance and the transition to a replacement GP contractor(s) generally runs smoothly, with minimal inconvenience arising for patients.In the case of resignations, the time frame for effecting the transition will normally be 3 months. Occasionally, due to logistical factors outside of the HSE's control, it can prove challenging to have the permanent replacement in situ prior to the existing contractor's departure but where this arises, temporary arrangements, such as the appointment of a locum or cross cover by other GPs in the locality, are put in place in the interim.

In the case of unforeseen vacancies arising due to the sudden death of a GP, the HSE is required to put an interim arrangement in place to ensure continuity of service for patients pending the engagement of a replacement GP contractor(s). This would involve locum cover or cross cover as mentioned above.In the case of sudden incapacity, the GP (where he/she is in a position to do so) would organise the interim cover arrangements and where he/she is not in a position to so do, the HSE would make the necessary arrangements pending either the GPs return to duty or the engagement of a replacement GP contractor(s).

I should point out that at no time in any of the above scenarios are GMS patients left without a named doctor. It is also worth noting that the enactment of the Health (Provision of General Practitioner Services) Act 2012 is of relevance in this context. As the number of GPs entering the GMS under the provisions of this Act increase over time it will assist in mitigating any service continuity issues that may arise when GMS panels become vacant, particularly in unforeseen circumstances.