Legal issues may have to be ironed out before a doctor can take over the vacant GP position in Lahardane.
A doctor based in the county is willing to take over the vacant role but the transfer of the required General Medical Services (GMS) registration number back to Lahardane could be considered a breach of contract.
This was revealed as members of the community met with HSE representatives on Friday as they continue to fight for the restoration of GP services.
Lahardane has been left without a GP for the first time in 100 years and more than 1,000 patients will have to travel at least 10 kilometres to Crossmolina to avail of a doctor. The previous GP, Dr Enda Loftus, has left the practice to take up a vacant position in a two-doctor practice in Crossmolina. The HSE twice advertised the position without a single applicant seeking the job.
Community representatives outlined their concerns to the HSE at the meeting chaired by Minister Dara Calleary in Claremorris on Friday. They declined an offer by the HSE of a local clinic in conjunction with services already in Crossmolina. However, the HSE has given a commitment to meet again with the proposed new doctor willing to take up the role in Lahardane and the community.
Gerry Loftus, who has led the local campaign, said a doctor is ready and willing to step into the post.
“But in order to take a position in Lahardane and make an income from it he needs the GMS number,” said Mr Loftus.
“We need to get this done soon. We need to figure out how to get this over the line. We need a doctor,” he added.
Mr Loftus said he believes Crossmolina will struggle to cope with the influx of new patients.
“It will get a lot more congested in Crossmolina,” he stated.
A planned demonstration at Mayo University Hospital has been postponed but the Lahardane community intends to keep up the pressure.
“The campaign goes on. We can’t stop now,” said Mr Loftus.
