Rural General Practice Network

The College's Rural General Practice Standing Committee is dedicated to supporting, advocating, and enhancing the role of general practitioners (GPs) in rural communities across Ireland. We understand the unique challenges faced by rural GPs and are committed to ensuring they have the resources, training, and representation needed to provide the highest quality of care to their communities.

Our Mission

Our mission is to champion the needs of Rural GPs in Ireland by:

• Advocating for Support and Resources: We work tirelessly to ensure that rural general practices have access to the necessary resources, funding, and infrastructure to deliver comprehensive and effective healthcare.
• Promoting Professional Development: Through continuous education, training programs, and peer support, we empower rural GPs to stay at the forefront of medical innovation and best practices.
• Influencing Policy: We actively engage with policymakers to shape healthcare policies that address the specific needs of rural communities, ensuring that they are not overlooked in the broader healthcare landscape.
• Fostering a Supportive Community: Our committee is a network of rural GPs who share experiences, challenges, and solutions, fostering a strong, supportive community that stands together in advocating for rural healthcare.

Rural General Practice is the backbone of community healthcare in many of Ireland's most remote and underserved communities. GPs in these areas are the senior clinical decision makers and provide critical care, often serving as the primary point of contact for patients with diverse and complex healthcare needs. The unique environment of rural practice requires a special blend of skills, resilience, and dedication. Rural General Practice is an incredibly rewarding career!

If you are a rural GP or have a vested interest in rural healthcare, we invite you to get involved with the activities of the Rural General Practice Standing Committee. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of rural communities across Ireland.

Explore our initiatives, learn more about our work, and find out how you can contribute to our mission. Your expertise and passion are invaluable to ensuring that rural communities in Ireland receive equitable access to healthcare.

For more information or to get involved, please contact us.

The Research, Policy and Information Department is pleased to announce a new Rural Practice Research and Innovation Grant.

The deadline for submission is Friday 10 January 2025 at 5pm.

For further information or queries please contact us.