Under-sixes free GP care scheme comes into force today
The free GP care scheme for children under six comes into force today.
Health Minister Leo Varadkar has said the under-sixes GP care scheme marks "the first tangible step towards universal health care".
The scheme officially comes into force today with 79,000 children already registered. Parents can still register their children here. The list of participating GPs is updated daily.
However, the National Association of GPs (NAGP) claims even doctors who signed up to provide the service had serious concerns. The NAGP has campaigned against the deal, claiming the funding should be targeted at children on the basis of medical need.
Association CEO Chris Goodey said the HSE must involve his members in any future negotiations.
"83% of GPs who signed the contracts did so under duress," he said. "They have cited patient safety and waiting lists for general practice. These concerns are not going to go away."
He added: "We represent almost 1,400 GPs around the country - well over half of all GPs. We think it's important the NAGP is involved in any future negotiations on contracts."
