04Dec

Navigating the Emerald Isle: A Guide to Ireland GP Careers

Ireland is a nation renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and thriving cultural scene. Additionally, it presents a wealth of opportunities for General Practitioners (GPs) seeking to advance their careers. With a growing population and a corresponding increase in demand for healthcare services, Ireland has become an attractive destination for GPs looking for new challenges and opportunities.

The Irish healthcare system is well-established, with a strong focus on primary care and community-based services. This enables GPs to make a tangible impact on the lives of their patients, while also enjoying a fulfilling and rewarding career. GPs in Ireland have the opportunity to work in a variety of settings, including private practices, community health centres, and hospitals.

They can choose to work in rural or urban areas, depending on their individual preferences and career objectives. Furthermore, GPs in Ireland have the opportunity to specialise in areas such as dermatology, geriatrics, or sports medicine, allowing them to further develop their skills and expertise. With a strong emphasis on continuing professional development, GPs in Ireland have access to a broad range of training and educational opportunities, ensuring that they are able to stay abreast of the latest developments in healthcare and provide the highest possible standard of care for their patients.

Summary

GP careers in Ireland offer a wide range of opportunities for professional growth and development.
Balancing family and medicine is achievable in Ireland, with flexible working options and supportive healthcare systems.
GPs in Ireland have various opportunities for career advancement, including specialising in family medicine and taking on leadership roles.
The Irish culture values family and community, making it an ideal place for GPs to integrate their personal and professional lives.
Relocating to Ireland for a GP career can be a smooth transition with the right support and resources in place for your family.

Balancing Family and Medicine: Navigating Ireland GP Careers

One of the key considerations for GPs considering a career in Ireland is how to balance their professional and personal lives. Ireland is a family-friendly country, with a strong emphasis on work-life balance and flexible working arrangements. This makes it an attractive destination for GPs who want to have a fulfilling career while also being able to spend quality time with their families.

Many healthcare facilities in Ireland offer flexible working hours, part-time opportunities, and the option to work from home, allowing GPs to tailor their work schedules to suit their personal commitments. In addition, Ireland offers a range of family-friendly policies and support services, including affordable childcare options, parental leave entitlements, and access to family-friendly facilities and amenities. This makes it easier for GPs to juggle their professional and family responsibilities, ensuring that they are able to thrive in both aspects of their lives.

Furthermore, the strong sense of community and support networks in Ireland means that GPs are able to access a wide range of resources and support services to help them navigate the challenges of balancing family and medicine.

Advancing Your Career: Opportunities for GPs in Ireland

For GPs looking to advance their careers, Ireland offers a range of opportunities for professional development and career progression. GPs in Ireland have the opportunity to take on leadership roles within healthcare organisations, such as becoming practice partners clinical directors or practice managers. They can also pursue further education and training to offer specialised family medicine adjacent services such as dermatological screening or women’s health.

In addition, GPs in Ireland have the opportunity to engage in research and academic activities, contributing to the advancement of medical knowledge and practice. Ireland is home to a vibrant healthcare community, with numerous professional associations, networks, and support groups for GPs. This provides GPs with the opportunity to connect with their peers, share knowledge and experiences, and access mentorship and support from more experienced colleagues.

GPs in Ireland also have the opportunity to engage in international collaborations and exchange programmes, allowing them to broaden their horizons and gain new perspectives on healthcare practice. With a strong emphasis on professional development and career advancement, Ireland is an ideal destination for GPs looking to take their careers to the next level.

The Role of Family in GP Careers: Finding Work-Life Balance in Ireland

Metrics	Data
Number of GP practices in Ireland	1,200
GP to population ratio	1:1,600
GP training duration	4 years
GP average annual salary	€100,000
GP job satisfaction rate	85%

The role of family is an important consideration for GPs considering a career in Ireland. The country’s strong emphasis on family values and work-life balance makes it an attractive destination for GPs who want to prioritise their personal lives while also pursuing a fulfilling career in medicine. In Ireland, GPs have access to a range of family-friendly policies and support services, including flexible working arrangements, parental leave entitlements, and affordable childcare options.

This makes it easier for GPs to balance their professional and family responsibilities, ensuring that they are able to thrive in both aspects of their lives. In addition, Ireland’s strong sense of community and support networks means that GPs are able to access a wide range of resources and support services to help them navigate the challenges of balancing family and medicine. This includes access to family-friendly facilities and amenities, as well as opportunities to connect with other healthcare professionals who understand the unique demands of working in medicine while also raising a family.

With its supportive environment and family-friendly policies, Ireland is an ideal destination for GPs who want to prioritise their personal lives while also pursuing a successful career in medicine.

Specializing in Family Medicine: Career Paths for GPs in Ireland

For GPs who are passionate about family medicine, Ireland offers a range of opportunities for specialisation and career development. Family medicine is a highly valued specialty in Ireland, with a strong emphasis on providing comprehensive and holistic care for patients of all ages. GPs who specialise in family medicine have the opportunity to work in a variety of settings, including private practices, community health centres, and hospitals.

They can also choose to focus on specific areas within family medicine, such as dermatology, geriatrics, or women’s health. In addition, GPs who specialise in family medicine have access to a wide range of training and educational opportunities in Ireland. This includes opportunities to engage in research and academic activities, as well as access to mentorship and support from more experienced colleagues.

With its strong emphasis on primary care and community-based services, Ireland provides an ideal environment for GPs who are passionate about family medicine and want to make a real difference in the lives of their patients. Whether they are interested in working with children, older adults, or vulnerable populations, GPs who specialise in family medicine have the opportunity to develop their skills and expertise while also enjoying a rewarding and fulfilling career.

Embracing the Irish Culture: Integrating Family and Medicine in Your GP Career

One of the unique aspects of pursuing a GP career in Ireland is the opportunity to embrace the country’s rich culture and heritage. Ireland is known for its warm hospitality, vibrant traditions, and strong sense of community, making it an ideal destination for GPs who want to integrate their professional and personal lives within a supportive and welcoming environment. GPs in Ireland have the opportunity to engage with local communities, participate in cultural events and activities, and build meaningful connections with their patients and colleagues.

In addition, Ireland’s strong sense of community means that GPs are able to access a wide range of resources and support services to help them navigate the challenges of balancing family and medicine within the context of Irish culture. This includes access to family-friendly facilities and amenities, as well as opportunities to connect with other healthcare professionals who understand the unique demands of working in medicine while also embracing Irish traditions and values. With its rich culture and strong sense of community, Ireland provides an ideal environment for GPs who want to integrate their professional and personal lives within a supportive and welcoming environment.

Making the Move: Relocating Your Family for a GP Career in Ireland

Relocating your family for a GP career in Ireland is an exciting opportunity that comes with its own set of challenges and considerations. Moving to a new country can be daunting, but with careful planning and preparation with Sagesa Healthcare, it can also be an incredibly rewarding experience for you and your family. Before making the move, it’s important to research the healthcare system in Ireland, including licensing requirements, registration processes, and employment opportunities for GPs.

You should also consider factors such as housing options, schooling for your children, and access to healthcare services for your family. Once you have made the decision to relocate your family for a GP career in Ireland, it’s important to seek out support from local networks and communities. This includes connecting with other healthcare professionals in Ireland, as well as accessing resources and support services for expatriates.

By building meaningful connections with local communities and seeking out support from experienced colleagues, you can ensure that your transition to Ireland is as smooth as possible for you and your family. With careful planning and preparation, relocating your family for a GP career in Ireland can be an exciting opportunity that allows you to pursue your professional goals while also enjoying all that this beautiful country has to offer. In conclusion, navigating GP careers in Ireland offers a wealth of opportunities for GPs looking to further their careers while also prioritising their personal lives.

With its strong emphasis on primary care and community-based services, Ireland provides an ideal environment for GPs who are passionate about family medicine and want to make a real difference in the lives of their patients. Whether you are considering relocating your family for a GP career in Ireland or are already based in the country, there are numerous opportunities for professional development, career advancement, and work-life balance that make Ireland an attractive destination for GPs from around the world. By embracing the unique culture and values of Ireland while also accessing support from local communities and networks, GPs can thrive both personally and professionally within this vibrant country.

26Nov

The Essential Skills and Qualities Needed to Succeed in a Healthcare Assistant Career

Compassion and empathy are two of the most essential qualities needed to succeed as a healthcare assistant. These qualities are crucial in providing care and support to patients who may be going through difficult times. Compassion allows healthcare assistants to truly understand and connect with their patients on a deeper level, while empathy enables them to put themselves in their patients’ shoes and provide the necessary emotional support.

Without these qualities, it can be challenging for healthcare assistants to build trust and rapport with their patients, which is crucial for providing effective care. In addition to providing emotional support, compassion and empathy also play a significant role in helping healthcare assistants understand the needs and concerns of their patients. By being able to empathize with their patients, healthcare assistants can better understand their fears, anxieties, and worries, and provide the necessary reassurance and comfort.

This can significantly improve the overall patient experience and contribute to better health outcomes. Furthermore, compassion and empathy also help healthcare assistants in dealing with difficult situations, such as end-of-life care or supporting patients with chronic illnesses. These qualities enable healthcare assistants to provide the necessary support and comfort to patients and their families during these challenging times.

Summary

Compassion and empathy are essential qualities for a healthcare assistant to provide the best care for patients.
Effective communication is crucial for building rapport with patients and understanding their needs.
Attention to detail is important for accurately recording and reporting patient information.
The ability to work in a team is vital for providing coordinated and comprehensive care to patients.
Adaptability and flexibility are necessary to handle the unpredictable nature of healthcare settings.

Effective Communication

Effective communication is another crucial skill that healthcare assistants need to succeed in their role. Clear and concise communication is essential for building strong relationships with patients, their families, and other healthcare professionals. Healthcare assistants need to be able to communicate effectively with patients to understand their needs, provide information about their care, and offer emotional support.

Additionally, they need to be able to communicate with other members of the healthcare team to ensure that all aspects of a patient’s care are coordinated and delivered effectively. Furthermore, effective communication is also important for ensuring patient safety. Healthcare assistants need to be able to accurately convey important information about a patient’s condition, medications, and treatment plan to other members of the healthcare team.

This can help prevent errors and ensure that patients receive the best possible care. In addition, effective communication also involves active listening, which is crucial for understanding a patient’s concerns and needs. By actively listening to patients, healthcare assistants can build trust and rapport, and provide more personalized care.

Attention to Detail

Attention to detail is a critical skill for healthcare assistants as it can significantly impact the quality of care they provide. Healthcare assistants need to be able to accurately observe and document a patient’s condition, including any changes or concerns. This requires a keen eye for detail and the ability to notice even the smallest changes in a patient’s health or behaviour.

Attention to detail is particularly important when it comes to monitoring vital signs, administering medications, and providing personal care. Any oversight or mistake in these areas can have serious consequences for a patient’s health. Furthermore, attention to detail is also important for ensuring that all aspects of a patient’s care are coordinated and delivered effectively.

Healthcare assistants need to be able to follow care plans accurately, document all relevant information, and report any concerns or changes in a patient’s condition to the appropriate healthcare professionals. This requires a high level of accuracy and precision in their work. Additionally, attention to detail is also important for maintaining a safe and clean environment for patients.

Healthcare assistants need to be able to identify potential hazards or risks and take appropriate measures to address them.

Ability to Work in a Team

Skills and Qualities	Description
Empathy	Ability to understand and share the feelings of patients
Communication	Effective verbal and non-verbal communication with patients and colleagues
Teamwork	Collaboration with other healthcare professionals for patient care
Attention to Detail	Ability to notice and remember important information about patients
Adaptability	Flexibility to handle different patient needs and changing work environments
Physical Stamina	Ability to stand for long periods and lift/move patients when necessary
Professionalism	Conducting oneself with integrity, respect, and ethical behaviour

The ability to work effectively in a team is another essential skill for healthcare assistants. Healthcare settings are often fast-paced and require collaboration between various healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, therapists, and other support staff. Healthcare assistants need to be able to work cohesively with these professionals to ensure that all aspects of a patient’s care are coordinated and delivered effectively.

This requires good interpersonal skills, the ability to communicate effectively, and a willingness to collaborate with others. Furthermore, the ability to work in a team also involves being able to take direction from other healthcare professionals and follow established protocols and procedures. Healthcare assistants need to be able to work within the scope of their role and seek guidance or support when needed.

Additionally, they also need to be able to provide support to other members of the healthcare team when necessary, such as assisting with patient transfers or providing additional help during busy periods. The ability to work in a team is crucial for ensuring that patients receive comprehensive and coordinated care from all members of the healthcare team.

Adaptability and Flexibility

Adaptability and flexibility are important qualities for healthcare assistants as they often work in dynamic and unpredictable environments. Healthcare settings can be fast-paced and subject to sudden changes, such as emergencies or unexpected patient needs. Healthcare assistants need to be able to adapt quickly to these changes and adjust their priorities accordingly.

This requires being able to think on their feet, remain calm under pressure, and make quick decisions when necessary. Furthermore, adaptability and flexibility also involve being able to accommodate the individual needs and preferences of patients. Healthcare assistants need to be able to adjust their approach to care based on each patient’s unique circumstances, such as their cultural background, language barriers, or physical limitations.

This requires being open-minded, respectful, and willing to make adjustments as needed. Additionally, adaptability and flexibility also involve being open to learning new skills or taking on new responsibilities as healthcare settings evolve.

Professionalism and Ethics

Professionalism and ethics are fundamental qualities for healthcare assistants as they play a significant role in maintaining trust and confidence in the healthcare profession. Healthcare assistants need to conduct themselves in a professional manner at all times, including being punctual, reliable, and maintaining appropriate boundaries with patients. Professionalism also involves adhering to established protocols and procedures, following ethical guidelines, and upholding patient confidentiality.

Furthermore, professionalism also involves being able to handle challenging situations with grace and composure. Healthcare assistants may encounter difficult or emotional situations in their role, such as dealing with agitated patients or supporting families through difficult decisions. It is important for healthcare assistants to remain professional in these situations and provide the necessary support without becoming emotionally involved.

Additionally, professionalism also involves being able to seek guidance or support when faced with ethical dilemmas or conflicts of interest.

Time Management and Organizational Skills

Time management and organizational skills are essential for healthcare assistants as they often have multiple responsibilities that require careful coordination. Healthcare settings can be fast-paced and demanding, requiring healthcare assistants to juggle various tasks while ensuring that all aspects of a patient’s care are delivered effectively. This requires being able to prioritize tasks, manage time efficiently, and stay organized amidst competing demands.

Furthermore, time management and organizational skills also involve being able to anticipate potential challenges or obstacles and plan accordingly. Healthcare assistants need to be able to think ahead and prepare for potential emergencies or unexpected changes in their workload. This requires being proactive, resourceful, and able to adapt their plans as needed.

Additionally, time management also involves being able to delegate tasks effectively when working in a team, ensuring that all responsibilities are shared appropriately. In conclusion, succeeding as a healthcare assistant requires a combination of essential skills and qualities that enable them to provide effective care and support to patients. Compassion and empathy are crucial for building trust with patients and providing emotional support.

Effective communication is essential for coordinating care with other healthcare professionals and ensuring patient safety. Attention to detail is important for accurately monitoring a patient’s condition and maintaining a safe environment. The ability to work in a team is crucial for delivering comprehensive care across different disciplines.

Adaptability and flexibility are important for responding quickly to changing circumstances and accommodating individual patient needs. Professionalism and ethics are fundamental for maintaining trust in the healthcare profession. Time management and organizational skills are essential for juggling multiple responsibilities effectively.

By embodying these skills and qualities, healthcare assistants can make a meaningful difference in the lives of their patients and contribute positively to the healthcare profession as a whole.

FAQs

What are the essential skills needed to succeed as a healthcare assistant?

To succeed as a healthcare assistant, essential skills include excellent communication, empathy, patience, and the ability to work well in a team. Additionally, organisational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are crucial.

What qualities are important for a healthcare assistant to possess?

Important qualities for a healthcare assistant to possess include compassion, reliability, adaptability, and a strong work ethic. They should also be respectful, trustworthy, and have a genuine desire to help others.

What training is required to become a healthcare assistant?

To become a healthcare assistant, individuals typically need to complete a relevant vocational qualification, such as a Level 2 or 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care. Some employers may also provide on-the-job training and support for further professional development.

What are the responsibilities of a healthcare assistant?

The responsibilities of a healthcare assistant may include assisting with personal care, monitoring patients’ vital signs, providing emotional support, and helping with daily activities such as eating and dressing. They may also be responsible for maintaining patient records and ensuring a clean and safe environment.

What are the career prospects for healthcare assistants?

Healthcare assistants can progress in their careers by gaining experience and further qualifications, such as an NVQ Level 4 in Health and Social Care. They may also have opportunities to specialise in areas such as mental health, paediatrics, or elderly care. Additionally, some healthcare assistants may choose to further their education and become registered nurses.

22Oct

Sagesa Healthcare at SEMERGEN 41st National Conference

SEMERGEN is the largest society of primary care physicians in Spain with over 120,000 members. The society celebrated it’s 41st Annual National Conference in Gijon last week. Sagesa Healthcare were there to promote our exciting work opportunities for GPs in Ireland.

With over 4,500 attendees, the conference was a great success. Interest in GP jobs in Ireland was fantastic and we look forward to working with many of the doctors going forward.

13May

Working Hours of Spanish Doctor’s – 4 out of 10 experiencing burnout!

Spanish Doctor’s Working Hours Revealed

A study by Medscape revealed that 4 out of 10 Spanish doctors are experiencing ‘burn out’ because of excessive working hours. The study carried out on 1000 doctors showed 55% of doctors work over the 40 hours a week in their contract.

The Average Working Week for a Spanish Doctor

A working week for Spanish doctors is between 21 and 40 hours, as reported by Redaccion Medica. Less than half of Spanish doctor are working the recommended number of hours according to this study. Alarmingly, 16% of doctors reported working up to 60 hours a week.

Doctors Salary and the Gender Gap

An average salary of €53.000 a year was reported for all participants in the study. GP’s were the largest specialty group in the study. On average male doctors earn €12.000 a year more than female doctors. Last year, the OMC reported that 50,4% of doctors in Spain are women.

Dissatisfaction with pay and excessive bureaucratic duties were the two principal reasons why 4 out of 10 doctors are or will experience ‘burn-out’. Within the study group, 7% of doctors said they were dealing with depression.

Conversely, 4 out of 10 doctors reported feeling ‘exceedingly fulfilled’ in the jobs, a feeling that extended outside of the work space as two thirds reported being happy in the personal lives.

Working Abroad

Short term contracts, dissatisfaction with pay and working conditions are the main ‘push factors’ for doctors looking for work outside of Spain. Inviting jobs offers abroad mean more Spanish doctors are choosing to work in Ireland, for example.

‘Out of hours’ GP’s in Ireland make €130.000+ a year (gross) working 40 hours a week
Doctors in the HSE work 37 hours a week with a salary from €55.000 – €180.000 a year depending on experience and specialty

To find out more about GP working in Ireland, visit Sagesa Healthcare. An experienced recruitment company, specialists in the European healthcare recruitment.

25Mar

10 Reasons you should Move to Ireland

Thinking of moving to Ireland? You’re not alone! Many people are thinking about moving to Ireland for work or simply because it’s a fantastic place to live! Ireland is attracting people from all backgrounds and ages and here’s why:

1. The Amazing New Food Scene

“Local produce, authentic experience” is the mantra of Ireland’s revolutionary food scene. The talented local producers and new up and coming chefs and are to thank for the big changes going on in the Irish culinary scene.

2. The Wild Atlantic Way (forget Highway 101!)

Forget California’s Highway 101, The Wild Atlantic Way is the new coastal drive on everyone’s bucket list! Explore the 2500km of roads across soaring cliffs, thorough buzzing towns, and find hidden beaches and epic bays.

3. World-class Festivals and Concerts

Everything from modern artists to the traditional music scene is renowned in Ireland. Opera, Art, Dance, Culture, Pop, Food – Ireland celebrates it all!

4. Outdoor Lifestyle, Sports and Hobbies

Think you’ll only leave your house to go to the pub? IMPOSSIBLE! There are so many reasons to enjoy the outdoors in Ireland – world class surfing, golfing, hiking, riding, kayaking…the list goes on!

5. The Incredible Culture

Everything your think you know (language, sports, literature, arts, dance, music..) and much much more!

6. Castles Castles Castles

Ireland reportedly has over 3000 castles! If you’re a history buff or simply enjoy taking in their magic we know you’ll find their landscape enchanting.

7. Tea and Barmbrack

“Sit down there and relax while I go wet the tea.” Magic words you’ll get used to hearing. Add a slice of barmbrack you’ll be there for hours.

8. World Class Education in Ireland

Google, Apple, Facebook all gravitated to Ireland for it’s skilled local labor market and it is a great place to do business.

9. The Language

Ireland is fast becoming a preferred destination for people to learn English whilst studying full time or as they work. Why risk the uncertainty of the UK when you can practice and improve your English in Ireland!

10. The People, the Humor, the Craic!

As always, the people make the place! The Irish sense of humor is known all over the world and you won’t have more fun or adventures than when you’re in Ireland.

To find out about how to make you big move to Ireland contact Sagesa Healthcare.

05Mar

5 Reasons to work as a GP in Ireland (out of hours)

5 Reasons to be an ‘out of hours’ GP in Ireland

An ‘out of hours’ GP is a family doctor that works from a healthcare centre during the evenings and weekends. There are a lot of advantages to working as an ‘out of hours’ GP; here are our top 5!

Ireland is the second most popular tourist destination in the world according to Tripadvisor, there is plenty to see and do!

A 40 hour working week with a schedule you can manage in advance allows for a flexible working timetable

The remuneration is fantastic, between €140.000 and €170.000 a year gross

GPs only work in a designated area so you see the same patients and become integrated in the community

Employers want doctors for the long term, minimum one year, although shorter roles are available on request

In Ireland healthcare centres must offer a 24 hour a day service to patients so ‘out of hours’ GPs cover the additional hours to meet this requirement. The centres are public but also see private patients. Doctors see patients at the healthcare centres or at the patients homes,by appointment only, the same as during regular hours.

Visit our JOBS page for more information or email us at info@sagesahealthcare.com

19Nov

The NHS looking to recruit for Spanish and EU GPs (Spanish)

El NHS busca médicos de familia españoles y europeos para el déficit en la fuerza laboral actual y en el futuro.

Cifras oficiales revelan que el National Health Service (NHS) del Reino Unido están muy por detrás del nivel de personal médico para alcanzar sus metas actuales y para el futuro.

Expertos en el sistema sanitario, ‘The Kings Fund’, explican que la crisis de personal en el NHS se está profundizando tan rápido que el servicio podría faltar hasta 350.000 empleados sanitarios en el 2030.

Las cifras oficiales muestran que el NHS en Inglaterra ya tiene puestos para 10.000 médicos y 40.000 enfermeras para llenar antes de alcanzar los niveles requeridos. Si las tendencias actuales continúan, estas cifras podrían duplicar o triplicar en los próximos 12 años.

Los expertos culpan a una planificación deficiente de la fuerza laboral, políticas restrictivas de inmigración y fondos inadecuados para los lugares de capacitación. Aunque un número récord de médicos jóvenes se están entrenando para convertirse en médicos de cabecera, “también hay algunas personas que abandonan la profesión en un número demasiado grande y que pasan de tiempo completo a tiempo parcial”, dijo el Secretario de Salud y Asistencia Social.

El plan del NHS incluye garantizar la contratación continua de médicos del extranjero. El ‘International GP Recruitment Programme’ forma parte de este plan y se trata de contratar médicos de países europeos como España para trabajar en el NHS. El programa es comprensivo y facilita el traslado de médicos de familia a Inglaterra con muchas ayudas logísticas y becas financieras.

Para saber más sobre el trabajo en el NHS como médico de familia español y las ofertas actuales como parte del ‘International GP Recruitment Programme’ pulse aquí. Para ver el estudio de ‘The Kings Fund’ en más detalle pulse aquí.

25Sep

Five Facts About a Spanish Doctor

A doctor working in Spain is most likely to be female, 44 (or younger) and from Madrid according to a new study published by the OMC (Organizacion Medica Colegial de España).

The study looked into the demographics of doctors working in Spain and revealed the following;

50,4% of medical professionals are women
Cataluña has the highest overall number of working doctors (although Madrid has the highest percentage of working female doctors)
62,2% of the total medical workforce under 55 years old are women
Oncology is the specialist area with the youngest average workforce
Family Medicine (GP) was the specialist area with most postgrad (MIR) positions available (27% of total) with Pediatrics in second place with 6%

17Sep

Number of Spanish Doctors on the Rise

A new study published by the OMC (Organizacion Medica Colegial de España) looking into the demographics of doctors working in Spain reveals why the numbers of doctors is increasing and why there are Spanish doctors looking for work abroad.

Spain has a massive pool of graduate doctors leaving university each year; one of the largest amongst OECD countries. In the last 15 years the number of medical students has increased by 48% with the number of university places reaching 5,660 in 2017. Spain has over 44 medical faculties both public and private, ranking 2nd in the world in terms of the number of medical faculties per million inhabitants, with more expected to open in the short term.

Specialist Training vs Graduate Pool

Access to postgraduate specialist training remains very restricted; this year only ~6,500 places were made available across all 49 specialties. Over 14,400 doctors took the entry examination but only 65% of those that passed were awarded a place. Therefore, despite obtaining a passing grade, over 2,800 doctors have been left without a place on the program.

Doctors are required to complete the MIR specialist training to work for the national health system (SNS). The thousands of experienced and qualified doctors left off the training each year now have two to options – private practice or look for work abroad.

OMC Demographic Study Spanish Doctors

07Jun

Why is there such a demand for Spanish GPs in Ireland?

Last year 215 doctors chose to leave Spain to work in Ireland. Budget cuts, hiring freezes, short term precarious contracts and salary are the principal push factors for Spanish doctors working in Ireland but why are they so desperately needed in the first place?

According to the HSE, Ireland is facing a shortage of up to 1,380 GPs by 2025 unless urgent steps are taken to address the shortfall ¹. Similarly, research highlighted by the ICGP in 2017 predicts shortages of over 1,000 doctors in general practice in the next 10 years ².

Reasons for GP shortage in Ireland

• HSE Recruitment Embargo
In 2009 the HSE introduced a recruitment embargo that meant a lack of employment options for the 700+ doctors graduating each year.

• Overseas Recruitment Campaigns
Countries such as the UK and Australia have been all too happy to recruit Irish doctors left without jobs in Ireland. Between 2009 and 2013 more than 1,000 Irish GPs have relocated to the UK, a staggering figure, given that Ireland only trains 157 GPs a year ³.

• GP Retirement
The lack of influx of early career GPs into the Irish Healthcare System has resulted in around one in five GPs being aged 60 or over, with almost one in three aged over 55 according the IGCP ⁴.

• Emigration Legacy
Although the HSE recruitment embargo has been lifted Ireland is finding it difficult to reverse the trends of the last few years. According to the IMO 60% of the 2016 newly qualified interns have already stated their intention to leave at the end of their first year ⁵.

Ireland is already below the OECD average for the number of doctors per head of population (64 GPs per 100,000 population) and given the predicted change in population they will not have enough doctors in the future ⁶. This year the IGCP reported 66% of recently qualified GP trainees are planning to emigrate and 16% of GP graduates emigrate immediately on completion of training ⁷.

According the IGCP, “Healthcare reform will depend on solving the problems in both recruitment and retention in Irish general practice”. The NDTP Unit indicates that 100 more GPs need to be trained every year. The ICGP delivered a 43% increase in training places between 2010 and 2016 and now train 172 GPs a year ⁸.

The role of external recruitment is not quantified in official reports but with the current shortfalls (shortage of up to 1,380 GPs by 2025) bringing in highly qualified GPs from Spain and other countries must play a vital role in reaching target GP numbers in the Irish Healthcare System.

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