THE failure to restore a GP clinic in Churchill has been blamed on connectivity issues.
For the last 19 months, people of the area have not had regular GP visits, which has severely impacted elderly residents. Prior to this, a GP service was available three days a week.
Patients are now being treated in the Ark Medical Centre in Letterkenny. But Mayor of Letterkenny, Councillor Donal ‘Mandy’ Kelly said more must be done as a matter of urgency to restore the GP service in Churchill.
In a written response to Senator Robbie Gallagher on the issue, the HSE said GPs are still providing home visits in the area, as well as seeing patients from Churchill in their practice in Letterkenny.
“The GPs have identified poor connectivity in the Churchill area as part of the reason why they haven’t recommenced a GP clinic there.
“The HSE are currently investigating this matter in order for a GP service to recommence in Churchill as soon as possible.”
While Cllr Kelly welcomed the response, he urged the HSE not to drag its heels in restoring the vital service in Churchill as soon as possible.
“I feel it is not happening quickly enough. As far as I am aware there has been little to no house visits over the last 18 to 20 months.”
Cllr Kelly previously called on Health Minister Stephen Donnelly to step in.
“I’m grateful that work is being done to address the connectivity issues and that a commitment is made to have a GP service back in Churchill but I ask that everything be done to move this forward as quickly as possible for all residents in Churchill and surrounding areas as they need this vital service.”
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