Small Town, Big Problem: Why Rural Ireland Is Turning to Online Doctors
Ireland is facing a well-documented GP shortage, and rural communities are feeling the pressure. According to the Irish Times, some counties operate with just one or two GP surgeries, meaning patients are often told the next available appointment could be weeks away. At the same time, the population has grown by over 600,000 in the last decade, while GP numbers have fallen, with almost a third of newly qualified GPs leaving for countries like Australia or Canada.
For families in towns from Kerry to Kilkenny, this shortage often means delaying care or travelling long distances for issues that could be resolved quickly with a consultation. Delays like this can have serious consequences for health and well-being.
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Why Online Consultations Are the Solution
This is where online healthcare offers a lifeline. By connecting patients with qualified doctors through secure video consultations, access to care is no longer limited by geography.
Online consultations are useful for:
Prescription renewals - sent directly to your local pharmacy
Common illnesses like colds, infections, or stomach issues
Follow-up appointments after an initial GP visit
Confidential advice that doesn’t require a physical exam
Telemedicine reduces travel costs, cuts down waiting times, and improves access to timely care in areas where GP services are stretched thin. While it can’t replace every in-person visit, it is reliable for the vast majority of everyday healthcare needs.
Simple, Transparent, Affordable
Here’s how it works:
Book your appointment online in minutes.
Join a secure video call with an Irish-registered doctor.
Receive prescriptions, sick notes, or referrals directly to you or your pharmacy.
And at €49 all-in, there are no hidden extras. That price covers everything the doctor issues during your consultation.
Healthcare That Fits Rural Ireland
From Donegal to Wexford, patients are already turning to online consultations as a practical solution to Ireland’s GP shortage. Instead of waiting weeks, you can speak to a doctor today.
The bigger picture is clear: Healthcare in Ireland needs to adapt to ensure equal access for everyone, not just those in big cities. Online consultations are one way of bridging that gap - making healthcare more accessible, compassionate, and transparent for people wherever they live.
