Thomas Pringle (Donegal South West, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

50. To ask the Minister for Health his proposals in instances where general practitioners have invested heavily in providing their own accommodation and cannot afford to move to a centre to provide primary health care centres; if consideration will be given to providing centres for the support team of a primary care team without a GP; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20757/15]

Kathleen Lynch (Cork North Central, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

International research indicates that shared premises are a key enabler for successful team working in the primary care setting. Primary Care Centres (PCCs) create an environment for improved access, facilitating structured approaches to chronic disease management, enhanced multidisciplinary team working, improved diagnostic capabilities in Primary Care and the integration of services between primary and secondary care.

To-date, there are 87 PCCs in operation, 44 of which have opened since March 2011. There are currently 54 locations where primary care infrastructure is under construction or at an advanced planning stage under three methods of delivery, where completion is expected by Q2, 2017:

- 15 Direct Build;

- 14 Public Private Partnership; and

- 25 Operational Lease.

In November 2014, the HSE advertised an additional 73 locations for delivery of Primary Care Centres by Operational Lease. The HSE is reviewing all Expressions of Interest received to determine which are suitable for more detailed consideration and progression to the next stage of the process.

The HSE continues to provide appropriate accommodation for Primary Care Team staff, taking into account the existing infrastructure from which GPs operate. GPs, not co-located with Primary Care Teams, continue to link and work with the Team through structured team meetings or direct contact with individuals.

A research project has been commissioned by my Department to identify and assess the various options available to Government to encourage the provision, including the upgrading and refurbishment, of primary care centres in areas where they are needed. External consultants have been engaged to carry out this work and I expect to receive a report on the matter later this year.