ONE FIFTH OF GPs who graduated in 2010 are now living abroad and current trainees are considering following suit.
According to surveys from the Irish College of General Practitioners (ICGP) of trainees and graduates, 16.9% of graduate respondents are now living overseas. Of this group, only 17% are planning to return to Ireland to work at some point.
Most graduates would prefer to stay in Ireland, but uncertainty around security in their professional roles, defined career progression opportunities and the role of GPs in the Irish healthcare system are the main factors for those considering emigration.
As for trainees, the report said a “worryingly low percentage” of current trainees are committed to working in Ireland with over 12% definitely planning to emigrate and 25% undecided.
Commenting on the results of the surveys, Dr Gerard Mansfield, National Director GP Training, ICGP said “both groups are facing an uncertain future here”.
“Irish General Practice has been weathering a time of unprecedented change, including the proposed introduction of Free GP care for some patient groups as well as Universal Health Insurance,” he said.
“For current trainees and recent graduates, choosing to remain in Ireland does not compare favourably with career opportunities in other markets, where they can find security in their professional roles, defined career progression opportunities and stable organised healthcare systems.”
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