Primary Care
Since the publication by the Department of Health of Primary Care – A new direction in 2001 the development of Primary Care teams and Primary Care Centres has been fundamental to the health system in Ireland.
A Primary Care Team (PCT) is a team of health professionals who work closely together to meet the needs of the people living in the community. They provide a single point of contact to the health system for the person.
These professionals include:
- GP and Practice Nurse
- Community Nursing Service – Public Health Nurse, Community Registered Nurse
- Occupational Therapist
- Physiotherapist
- Home Help/support staff
The Primary Care Team members also link with other community-based disciplines to ensure all health and social needs are provided for: These include:
- Speech and Language Therapy
- Dieticians
- Mental Health Services
- Counsellor/Psychologist
- Podiatry
- Social work
- Dental
- Ophthalmic Services
The HSE are aiming to have 485 Primary Care Teams in operation by end of 2012 each serving a population of approximately 8,000 to 12,000.
Primary Care Centres
In December 2007 and July 2008 the HSE invited expressions of interest from individuals and companies who were planning on developing health facilities at advertised locations in conjunction with local General Practitioners. The new centres are to accommodate the GP’s and other members of the Primary Care teams. Expressions of Interest were invited for over 200 locations.