If you’re a GP currently working in the UK and considering relocating to Ireland, you’re not alone. Many doctors are exploring opportunities in the Irish healthcare system due to better work-life balance, greater clinical autonomy, and attractive earning potential.
In this article, we’ll explore the key differences between working as a General Practitioner in Ireland versus the UK.
Why Are UK GPs Considering a Move to Ireland?
A growing number of UK-based doctors are exploring work opportunities in Ireland for several reasons:
- Less bureaucracy and box-ticking
- More flexible appointment scheduling
- Attractive pay via private and public revenue
- No CQC inspections or PCN structures
- A similar patient population and clinical case mix
These factors make the transition smoother than many expect — especially for GPs familiar with managing their own lists.
Key Differences Between Irish and UK General Practice
Here’s how the systems compare across several key areas:
1. Practice Ownership and Structure
In the UK, GP practices are often part of NHS organisations or Primary Care Networks (PCNs). In Ireland, however:
- Practices are privately owned – usually by one or more GP partners
- There are no PCNs or NHS equivalent run practices
- GPs work as independent contractors to the Health Service Executive (HSE) or are employed by private practices
This gives practices in Ireland much more autonomy over how they operate, manage patients, and structure clinical sessions.
2. The GMS Scheme and Medical Cards
Ireland operates a mixed healthcare model, where patients can be either private or publicly supported through the General Medical Services (GMS) scheme.
- Patients on lower incomes, or with specific needs, may qualify for a Medical Card
- Around 40% of the population holds a Medical Card or GP Visit Card
- Medical Card holders get free GP visits and subsidised medication
- GP Visit Card holders get free GP consultations only
For GPs, treating GMS patients means being reimbursed through capitation payments, with additional fees for specific services like chronic disease management.
3. Income Model for GPs
- GMS patients: GPs are paid via capitation (fixed amount per patient per year)
- Private patients: Pay out-of-pocket, usually around €50–€70 per consultation
- Additional income: Can be earned through enrolment in government-supported chronic disease programmes or minor surgery services
There’s also growing demand for sessional GPs in Ireland — salaried roles paid per half- or full-day session.
4.Patient Load and Appointment Style
Compared to the UK, Irish GPs enjoy greater control over appointment length and caseload:
- A typical session includes 12–14 patients
- Practices set their own schedule – there’s no mandated 10-minute slot
- There are fewer national performance targets or centralised inspection regimes
This allows for a less pressurised, more personalised approach to patient care.
5. Referral Pathways: Public vs Private
In Ireland, GPs can refer patients to:
- Public hospitals (funded by the HSE, free for GMS patients)
- Private hospitals (if the patient has private health insurance)
Over 45% of Irish residents hold private health insurance, giving GPs more options when choosing referral pathways.
6. Clinical Autonomy and Guidelines
The Irish College of General Practitioners (ICGP) provides national guidelines for the treatment of common illnesses. However:
- GPs enjoy high levels of clinical autonomy
- There’s less central oversight compared to UK systems (e.g., no CQC inspections)
- GPs have flexibility in how they manage chronic disease, diagnostics, and treatment plans
Is It Easy to Register as a GP in Ireland?
Yes — for UK-qualified GPs, registration is relatively straightforward:
- The Irish Medical Council recognises UK primary medical qualifications
- GPs must register on the Specialist Division (for experienced GPs) or General Division
- You’ll also need to complete Garda Vetting and potentially an occupational health clearance
For more information: Read our overseas blog.
Get in touch with our GP recruitment team today to explore open GP roles or ask any questions about relocating.