The GP workforce crisis in Ireland and the UK has reached a critical tipping point. Both health systems, despite their similarities, are grappling with issues in primary care — issues that affect not just the medical workforce, but entire communities relying on timely, accessible healthcare.
In Ireland, the scale of the GP shortage problem is growing more visible each year. According to recent projections from the ESRI, the country will need between 943 and 1,211 additional GPs by 2040 just to meet basic population needs. This isn’t surprising when you consider the backdrop: as of 2023, there were only around 3,928 clinically active GPs — many nearing retirement age — and patient demand is increasing sharply. Pair this with the face that nearly a third of Ireland’s newly qualified GPs are emigrating every year.
Across the Irish Sea, the UK’s NHS is facing its own version of the same crisis. Despite a high number of applicants (over 15,000 for around 4,000 training spots), there is a bottleneck in GP training.
For years, governments have failed to meet targets to recruit enough GPs, but now trained doctors are struggling to find posts. A staggering 39% of current GPs in the UK have indicated they’re considering leaving the profession within the next five years — that could mean losing up to 19,000 doctors from an already overstretched system.
What’s clear is that both countries are facing a parallel crisis. But what’s less often discussed is how aligned their healthcare systems really are — and how closely they could cooperate on a solution.
How We Can Help Solve the Crisis
The good news? There are real, actionable solutions on the table — and there are clear opportunities for cross-border collaboration.
The structure of GP training in both systems is closely aligned. UK-trained GPs who complete the MRCGP UK and obtain a Certificate of Completion of Training (CCT) can transfer these credentials and register with The Irish Medical Council (IMC) to work in Ireland. The Irish Medical Council recognises these qualifications, making relocation straightforward for those looking to move between the two systems.
For any UK-based GPs considering a move to Ireland, the process is smooth. Registration involves a standard application, and there are dedicated supports for doctors relocating, especially those willing to work in rural or underserved areas. MatchMedics are able to guide you through all of these steps.
Why This Matters
For GPs in the UK, this is a moment to consider overseas opportunities, rural placements, and new working models. The crisis is real — but so is the potential. Our team understands the systems, the paperwork, and the pressures, and we make it simple. In a time of urgent need, we’re here to connect talent with the communities that need it most.