Catherine Ardagh (Dublin South Central, Fianna Fail)
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129. To ask the Minister for Health the timeframe for bringing forward a new GP contract; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24100/25]

Jennifer Carroll MacNeill (Dún Laoghaire, Fine Gael)
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The Programme for Government includes a commitment to publish the Strategic Review of General Practice, and bring forward a new, modern GP contract.

It is worth noting that the current GMS Contract, while long standing, has been modernised in recent years under the 2019 and 2023 GP Agreements, both of which have provided in substantial additional investments in general practice and increased supports for GPs.

The Strategic Review of General Practice is currently underway, led by officials from my Department with support from the HSE and input from relevant stakeholders. The review is examining a range of issues affecting general practice including GP training, GP capacity, Out of Hours services reform, the eHealth Agenda, and the financial support model for general practice.

Significant progress has been made under the review which is to be completed this year. When completed, a final report will be presented to me outlining the findings of the review and setting out recommended actions for a more sustainable general practice. The report itself will be published subsequently.

The strategic review will identify the arrangements necessary to improve the current system of GP care, and this will determine the changes required in a new contract. Finalisation of a new contract will also require agreement with the IMO.