Why GP lists are closed
Demand for GP care in Ireland has grown faster than the number of GPs, especially in growing towns and commuter areas. Many practices close their lists to protect care for existing patients. That is not a judgement on you; it simply means you need a plan.
Getting the HSE to assign a GP
If you hold a medical card or GP visit card, you can ask the HSE to assign you to a GP once three practices have refused you.
- Write down each practice you contacted, the date and the answer.
- Contact your local HSE medical card or primary care office.
- Ask to be assigned to a GP who takes part in the scheme, and give them your list.
Private patients
If you pay for GP visits yourself, there is no assignment process. Keep contacting practices and use the options below in the meantime.
Widening your search
- Use the HSE "Find a GP" service and ring practices directly. Websites are not always up to date.
- Ask to join any waiting list, and ring back every few weeks.
- Look at practices near your workplace or in the next town.
- Ask neighbours and colleagues. Practices sometimes take family members of existing patients.
Getting care while you wait
| Need | Best first step |
|---|---|
| Cold, sore throat, minor skin problem | Community pharmacist |
| Needs a Doctor but not urgent, e.g. repeat medicine, infection, advice | Online Doctor |
| Unwell in the evening or at the weekend | GP out-of-hours co-op |
| Sprain, minor fracture, small burn or cut | Injury unit |
| Chest pain, difficulty breathing, signs of stroke | Call 112 / 999 |
Keep your own records
Keep every consultation summary and prescription. When you do register, your new GP will have your history from day one.
When it is urgent
Do not wait for a GP if you have chest pain, difficulty breathing, sudden weakness or confusion, heavy bleeding or a severe allergic reaction. Call 112 or 999.
Common questions
Can the HSE assign me a GP in Ireland?
Yes, if you have a medical card or GP visit card. If you have been refused by three GPs, your local HSE office can assign you to a GP who takes part in the scheme. Private (fee-paying) patients do not have this right, so they need to keep contacting practices.
What if every GP list near me is closed?
Keep a record of the practices you contacted, ask to join waiting lists, and look at practices near your work or in neighbouring towns. In the meantime, use pharmacists, GP out-of-hours services and online Doctors for everyday care.
Can I see an online Doctor without having a GP?
Yes. Online Doctor services in Ireland do not require you to be registered with a GP. The Doctor will advise you to see someone in person if your problem needs an examination.
Will an online Doctor share notes with my future GP?
You usually receive a summary of the consultation that you can keep and give to a GP later. Keeping these summaries helps your new GP understand your history.
Where can I get medical care out of hours in Ireland?
Regional GP out-of-hours co-operatives cover evenings, nights, weekends and bank holidays. For injuries such as minor fractures and burns, injury units are often quicker than an emergency department. In an emergency, call 112 or 999.
Does going to an emergency department cost money without a GP referral?
Yes. Unless you have a medical card or another exemption, a public emergency department charge applies if you attend without a GP referral letter. Check the current amount on the HSE website.
What should I do if my GP is not accepting appointments?
If you are already registered, ask the practice about cancellation lists, phone consultations or a nurse appointment. For something that cannot wait, use the out-of-hours service or an online Doctor rather than leaving it.
Where these figures come from
- HSE — finding a GP
- Citizens Information — GP services
- HSE — GP out-of-hours services
- HSE — injury units
Charges and thresholds change. We check these figures regularly, but always confirm the current rate with the official source before you rely on it. This page explains entitlements, costs and process — it is not medical advice.
See a Doctor while you look for a GP
ViscaCare members can book an online Doctor appointment through our clinical partner Health Hero at a member rate of €39 during the launch offer (a typical online appointment is closer to €50), with prescriptions where clinically appropriate.
Related guides
Online doctor in Ireland
What it costs (typically around €50), what can be prescribed, and how booking works.
Read moreGP visit card
Free GP visits on higher income limits than a medical card.
Read moreMedical card Ireland
Medicines at €1.50, hospital care, dental and optical cover — and the income limits.
Read more