Finding and Registering with a GP in Ireland: Complete Guide (2025)

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Finding a GP (General Practitioner) in Ireland is one of your first healthcare priorities when moving here, but it can be surprisingly challenging. Many GPs aren’t accepting new patients, particularly in Dublin, and the process differs from other countries. Understanding how to find a GP, what registration involves, and what to expect helps you secure healthcare access quickly.

This guide shows you exactly how to find a GP accepting patients, what the registration process involves, typical costs, and how the Irish GP system actually works. Whether you’re arriving from the US, UK, EU, or elsewhere, you’ll know how to navigate the system and establish care with a family doctor.

Understanding the GP system in Ireland

What is a GP?

GP (General Practitioner):

  • Your primary care doctor/family doctor
  • First point of contact for health issues
  • Diagnoses and treats common conditions
  • Prescribes medications
  • Refers to specialists when needed
  • Manages chronic conditions
  • Provides preventive care

In Ireland, GPs are:

  • Private practitioners (not government employees)
  • Run their own practices or work in group practices
  • Charge fees for consultations (except medical card holders)
  • Gatekeepers to specialist care

How it differs from other countries

vs United Kingdom (NHS):

  • UK: Register formally with GP practice, free visits
  • Ireland: Less formal registration, visits cost €50-€70
  • UK: GP assigned by address
  • Ireland: Choose any GP accepting patients

vs United States:

  • US: See any doctor, insurance-dependent
  • Ireland: GP is gatekeeper, need referral for specialists
  • US: Often free copays with insurance
  • Ireland: Pay out-of-pocket, then insurance may reimburse

vs EU countries:

  • Similar gatekeeper model to most EU
  • Costs similar to Germany, France
  • More expensive than Spain, Portugal

The gatekeeper role

GPs control access to:

  • Specialist consultations (need referral letter)
  • Hospital consultants
  • Most diagnostic tests
  • Physiotherapy (sometimes)
  • Mental health services

Cannot self-refer:

  • Must go through GP first (except emergencies)
  • Even with private health insurance
  • GP letter required for specialist appointment
  • Only exception: A&E for emergencies

Why this matters:

  • Need a GP before you can access most healthcare
  • Finding GP is urgent priority
  • Cannot wait until you’re sick

Finding a GP accepting new patients

The challenge

Many GPs not accepting patients:

  • Especially in Dublin
  • GP shortage nationwide
  • Older GPs retiring
  • Not enough new GPs qualifying
  • Existing GPs at capacity

Reality:

  • May need to contact 5-10 practices
  • Can take days to weeks
  • More difficult in cities
  • Easier in rural areas sometimes

Start looking immediately upon arrival.

Search methods

1. HSE Find a GP service:

  • Website: hse.ie
  • Search by location (Eircode or area)
  • Shows GP practices near you
  • Lists contact information
  • Click “Contact the Practice” to inquire

Limitations:

  • Doesn’t show who’s accepting patients
  • Must call each practice individually
  • Database sometimes outdated

2. Ask locals:

  • Neighbors
  • Colleagues at work
  • Landlord
  • Irish friends

Best source:

  • People in your area know which GPs are good
  • Can warn you away from problematic ones
  • May be able to recommend specifically

3. Google search:

  • “GP near [your area]”
  • “GP [town name]”
  • Read Google reviews (with caution)
  • Check practice websites

4. Facebook community groups:

  • Local community groups
  • Expat groups
  • Ask “Who’s accepting new patients?”
  • Usually get several recommendations

5. Your health insurance (if you have it):

  • Some insurers have provider directories
  • May show preferred GPs
  • Can sometimes help with placement

What to look for

Consider:

  • Distance: Within 15-20 minutes of home ideal
  • Opening hours: Do they suit your work schedule?
  • Emergency appointments: Do they offer same-day?
  • Practice size: Solo GP or group practice?
  • Languages: English only or other languages?
  • Gender: Some people prefer male/female doctor
  • Special interests: Pediatrics, women’s health, mental health, etc.

Group practices advantages:

  • Multiple doctors (easier to get appointments)
  • Better coverage (always someone available)
  • More services (nurse, phlebotomy on-site)
  • Longer hours usually

Solo GP advantages:

  • See same doctor every time
  • More personal relationship
  • Sometimes more flexible
  • Often smaller, quieter

Making the calls

What to say: “Hi, I’m new to the area and looking for a GP. Are you accepting new patients?”

They’ll usually ask:

  • Your name
  • Your address (some GPs only take patients in their area)
  • Do you have a medical card? (they may prioritize these)
  • Do you have any complex medical conditions?

If yes, accepting:

  • Ask: “What’s the registration process?”
  • Ask: “Is there a registration fee?”
  • Ask: “How do I book my first appointment?”
  • Get their address and opening hours

If no, not accepting:

  • Ask: “Do you know any GPs in the area who are accepting?”
  • Ask: “Should I check back in a few months?”
  • Thank them and move to next on list

Be polite and patient:

  • Receptionists deal with many calls
  • They’re gatekeepers
  • Being friendly helps
  • Don’t be pushy or demanding

Tips for success

Increase your chances:

1. Cast a wide net:

  • Don’t limit to your immediate street
  • Try within 5km radius
  • Consider slightly outside city center
  • More options = better chance

2. Time your calls:

  • Tuesday-Thursday mornings best (9-11am)
  • Avoid Monday mornings (very busy)
  • Avoid Friday afternoons (rushing to close)
  • Mid-morning quieter than opening time

3. If you have medical card:

  • Mention this upfront
  • GPs receive payment from government
  • More likely to accept
  • Some GPs prioritize medical card patients

4. If you’re a family:

  • Mention you’re looking for whole family
  • Some GPs prefer family units
  • Steady patient base for them

5. Be persistent:

  • Don’t get discouraged by rejections
  • Keep calling
  • Try again in a few weeks if all say no
  • New practices open occasionally

6. Consider temporary solution:

  • SouthDoc (out-of-hours service) for emergencies
  • Medical centers (walk-in, but expensive €80+)
  • Keep looking for permanent GP

The registration process

Initial appointment

Some GPs require registration appointment:

  • Book specifically as “new patient registration”
  • 15-30 minute appointment
  • May cost €50-€70 (same as regular visit)
  • Or may charge separate registration fee €25-€50

Others don’t require formal registration:

  • Just book your first regular appointment
  • Fill out forms at first visit
  • No special registration process

Call and ask: “What’s your registration process for new patients?”

Documents to bring

Essential:

  • Photo ID (passport, Irish ID, driving license)
  • Proof of address (utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement)
  • PPS number (if you have it)
  • Medical card (if you have one)

Helpful:

  • Previous medical records (if available from home country)
  • List of current medications
  • List of allergies
  • Summary of medical history
  • Vaccination records

If from abroad:

  • Bring any English-language medical summaries
  • Contact previous doctor for medical history summary
  • Most GPs will accept emailed records from previous GP

What to expect at registration

Forms to complete:

  • Personal details (name, address, date of birth)
  • Emergency contact
  • Medical history questionnaire
  • Current medications
  • Allergies
  • Previous surgeries
  • Family medical history
  • Consent forms (data protection, etc.)

The GP may:

  • Take basic health measurements (blood pressure, weight)
  • Ask about your general health
  • Ask about any current concerns
  • Explain how the practice works
  • Give you practice information leaflet

Questions to ask:

  • “How do I book appointments?” (phone, online, app?)
  • “What are your opening hours?”
  • “Do you offer emergency/same-day appointments?”
  • “How do I order prescriptions?” (phone, online?)
  • “What’s the out-of-hours service?” (who to call nights/weekends)
  • “Do you do home visits?” (if needed)
  • “How much do visits cost?”

Registration fees

Typical costs:

  • No registration fee: Many GPs
  • Registration fee: €25-€50 (some GPs)
  • Standard consultation fee: €50-€70

What you might pay:

  • Option A: Nothing at registration, €50-€70 first regular visit
  • Option B: €25-€50 registration + €50-€70 first visit
  • Option C: €50-€70 for registration appointment (no separate fee)

Medical card holders:

  • Usually no registration fee
  • Visits always free
  • Show card at each visit

Ask upfront to avoid surprises.

Costs and payment

Standard visit costs

Without medical card:

  • GP consultation: €50-€70 (most common)
  • Dublin: €60-€70 typical
  • Rural areas: €50-€60 typical
  • Some GPs: €75-€80+

Payment methods:

  • Cash (always accepted)
  • Debit/credit card (most accept)
  • Contactless (many accept)
  • Pay at time of visit
  • Some allow payment at reception after

No invoicing/billing later - pay immediately.

What’s included in visit

Standard consultation includes:

  • Examination
  • Diagnosis
  • Basic treatment advice
  • Prescription if needed
  • Referral letter if needed

Additional costs:

  • Prescription: You pay at pharmacy separately
  • Blood tests: Usually free if done at hospital/lab
  • Specialized tests: May cost extra
  • Forms: Letter for work, insurance forms (€10-€40)
  • Medical reports: €40-€100
  • Vaccinations: Flu shot €30-€40, travel vaccines €40-€80 each

Medical card holders

If you have medical card:

  • All GP visits free
  • Prescriptions free
  • Show card at each visit
  • GP paid by government
  • Cannot be charged

Eligibility:

  • Low income (under ~€14,000 single, €24,000 couple)
  • Over 70 (higher income thresholds)
  • Some chronic conditions

Apply: hse.ie/medicalcard

For complete healthcare cost information, see our healthcare system guide.

Private health insurance

Most insurance doesn’t cover routine GP visits:

  • VHI: Some plans offer €20-€40 cashback per visit
  • Laya: Some plans offer €25-€45 cashback
  • Irish Life: Some plans offer similar

How it works:

  • Pay GP directly (€50-€70)
  • Submit receipt to insurer
  • Receive €20-€40 back
  • Still cheaper to pay €50-€70 than pay for insurance just for this

When insurance helps:

  • GP referrals to specialists (covered)
  • Diagnostic tests ordered by GP (covered)
  • Hospital care (covered)

Bottom line: Budget for full GP costs even with insurance.

After you’re registered

Booking appointments

Methods:

  • Phone (most common): Call during office hours
  • Online booking: Some practices have systems
  • Walk-in: Some practices allow, but rare
  • App: A few modern practices have apps

Advance booking:

  • Routine check-up: Book 1-2 weeks ahead
  • Minor illness: Often same day or next day
  • Chronic condition follow-up: Book 2-4 weeks ahead

Emergency appointments:

  • Most GPs reserve slots for emergencies
  • Call morning of, explain urgency
  • Usually can see you same day
  • “Emergency” means urgent medical issue, not convenience

Prescription refills

Repeat prescriptions:

  • Call practice or use online system
  • Request 24-48 hours in advance
  • GP reviews and sends to pharmacy
  • Collect from pharmacy
  • Pay pharmacy directly

Fees:

  • Some GPs charge €5-€15 for repeat prescription
  • Some included in regular visit cost
  • Ask your practice

Annual review:

  • Chronic medications require annual appointment
  • GP checks medication still appropriate
  • Adjusts doses if needed
  • Cannot just prescribe indefinitely without seeing you

Changing GPs

You can change anytime:

  • Not locked in
  • No formal de-registration process
  • Just register with new GP
  • New GP will request records from old GP

Common reasons:

  • Moving to new area
  • Not satisfied with care
  • Closer GP becomes available
  • Personality clash
  • GP retires/practice closes

Process:

  • Find new GP accepting patients
  • Register as new patient
  • Tell old practice you’re leaving (courtesy)
  • Request medical records transfer

Medical records

Your records belong to you:

  • Can request copy anytime
  • GP may charge €10-€40 for printing
  • Usually take 2-4 weeks to receive
  • Useful if moving abroad or changing GPs

Electronic records:

  • Most GPs use electronic systems
  • Transfer between GPs easier than before
  • Still some paper records in older practices

Privacy:

  • Records confidential
  • GP cannot share without consent (except specific legal situations)
  • Secure storage required

Special situations

Children

Under 6:

  • Free GP visits (government pays)
  • No medical card needed
  • Well-child checks
  • Vaccinations
  • Development assessments

6-17:

  • Standard fees apply (unless medical card)
  • School vaccination program (free)
  • Many GPs see children/teens

Finding pediatric GP:

  • Some GPs specialize in children
  • Ask when registering: “Do you see children?”
  • Whole family often registers with same GP

Pregnancy

Maternity care mostly through hospital:

  • GP does initial confirmation
  • Refers to hospital for maternity care
  • Hospital provides prenatal visits
  • GP still available for non-pregnancy issues

GP role:

  • Pregnancy test/confirmation
  • Initial advice
  • Referral to hospital
  • Backup for questions
  • Sick notes if needed

Maternity care is free in public system.

Chronic conditions

Regular monitoring needed:

  • Diabetes, hypertension, asthma, etc.
  • Regular appointments required (3-6 months)
  • Annual blood tests typical
  • GP manages medications
  • Refers to specialist if needed

Costs add up:

  • Multiple visits per year
  • Regular prescriptions
  • Register for Drugs Payment Scheme (€80/month max)
  • Medical card if eligible

Mental health

GP first point of contact:

  • Assess mental health concerns
  • Prescribe antidepressants/anxiety meds
  • Refer to counseling/psychology
  • Refer to psychiatrist if needed
  • Ongoing management

What GP can provide:

  • Initial assessment
  • Medication management
  • Referrals to specialists
  • Sick notes for work
  • Supportive counseling (limited)

What GP cannot provide:

  • Long-term psychotherapy (need specialist)
  • Complex psychiatric care (need psychiatrist)

Medical emergencies

When to see GP vs A&E:

See GP (same-day emergency appointment):

  • High fever
  • Suspected infection
  • Minor injury
  • Sudden pain (not severe)
  • Persistent vomiting/diarrhea
  • Rash concerns
  • Suspected UTI

Go to A&E:

  • Chest pain
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Severe bleeding
  • Head injury with confusion
  • Broken bones
  • Severe allergic reaction
  • Loss of consciousness

Out of hours (nights/weekends):

  • SouthDoc: 1850 335 999 (South)
  • Shannondoc: 1850 212 999 (West)
  • Other regional services
  • Costs €60-€80

For complete emergency information, see our emergency services guide.

Common challenges and solutions

Challenge: Can’t find GP accepting patients

Solutions:

  • Expand search radius (try 5-10km from home)
  • Try less popular areas (suburbs vs city center)
  • Call mid-week, mid-morning
  • Ask locally for recommendations
  • Check regularly (situations change)
  • Consider medical centers as temporary (expensive but available)

Challenge: GP very far from home

Solutions:

  • Use them for now, keep looking
  • Worth traveling for good GP
  • Book appointments in batches
  • Use out-of-hours service for emergencies
  • Keep searching for closer option

Challenge: Long wait for appointments

Solutions:

  • Book well in advance for routine visits
  • Use emergency slots for urgent issues
  • Find GP with multiple doctors (easier to get appointments)
  • Consider changing GP if consistently problematic

Challenge: High costs

Solutions:

  • Apply for medical card (if eligible)
  • Apply for GP visit card (if eligible)
  • Register for Drugs Payment Scheme (max €80/month prescriptions)
  • Budget €50-€70 per visit
  • Prevent illness where possible
  • Use pharmacy for minor ailments

Challenge: Language barriers

Solutions:

  • Look for GPs speaking your language (some advertise)
  • Bring translator (friend/family)
  • Use Google Translate
  • Write down symptoms before visit
  • Most GPs patient and understanding

Challenge: Missing medical records from home country

Solutions:

  • Contact previous doctor, request summary
  • Write down your own medical history
  • List all medications
  • List all surgeries/hospitalizations
  • Mention allergies clearly
  • GP will build new records over time

Tips for first visit

Before appointment

Prepare:

  • Write down current symptoms
  • List current medications (names, doses)
  • List allergies
  • Note recent medical history
  • Questions you want to ask

Bring:

  • ID and proof of address
  • Medical card (if you have one)
  • List of medications
  • Previous medical records (if available)
  • Notebook to take notes

During appointment

Be honest:

  • Describe symptoms accurately
  • Don’t minimize or exaggerate
  • Mention all medications (including over-the-counter)
  • Share relevant medical history
  • Admit if you don’t understand

Ask questions:

  • “What do you think is causing this?”
  • “What’s the treatment plan?”
  • “What should I watch for?”
  • “When should I come back?”
  • “Are there alternatives?”

Take notes:

  • Write down diagnosis
  • Note medication names/doses
  • Record follow-up instructions
  • Note warning signs to watch for

After appointment

Follow instructions:

  • Take medications as prescribed
  • Book follow-up if advised
  • Watch for warning signs
  • Get prescriptions filled promptly

If concerned:

  • Call practice if symptoms worsen
  • Don’t hesitate to seek advice
  • Better to ask than worry
  • Most practices offer phone advice

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to find a GP?

It varies significantly. In rural areas, you might find one within a day or two. In Dublin, it could take days to weeks of calling. Expect to contact 5-10 practices. Start searching immediately when you arrive. Some people get lucky on the first call, others need weeks of persistent searching. Don’t give up—keep trying different practices and asking locals.

Do I need a GP if I have private health insurance?

Yes, absolutely. Private insurance doesn’t give you direct access to specialists—you still need GP referrals. Also, insurance doesn’t usually cover routine GP visits, so you’ll pay the GP directly anyway. Having both a GP and private insurance is the standard setup for most Irish people who can afford insurance.

Can I see any GP or must I register with one?

You should register with one specific GP practice as your “regular” GP. While you technically could visit different GPs each time, this means fragmented care, no medical history, and difficulty getting appointments. Most GPs prefer registered patients. Register with one, build a relationship, but you can change if needed.

What if my GP won’t give me a referral I want?

If your GP doesn’t think a specialist referral is appropriate, ask them to explain why. If you disagree, you can: (1) Get a second opinion from another GP, (2) Request the referral anyway (private insurance may cover it), or (3) Consider if the GP’s clinical judgment is sound. GPs are trained gatekeepers and sometimes appropriately decline unnecessary referrals.

Can I register with a GP before I arrive in Ireland?

Theoretically yes, but most practices want to meet you in person and need Irish proof of address. Better strategy: arrive, get temporary accommodation, then search for GP. Some practices might let you call and register over phone, but this is rare. Focus on finding housing first, then GP.

Do GPs do home visits?

Some do, but it’s increasingly rare and usually only for housebound patients or emergencies. Most GPs expect you to come to the practice. If you’re genuinely too ill to travel, you can request a home visit, but expect additional charges (€100-€150+). Out-of-hours services sometimes do home visits.

What if I can’t afford the GP visit fees?

Apply for a medical card or GP visit card at hse.ie—if you qualify (low income), GP visits become free. If you don’t qualify, budget for GP costs, try to prevent illness where possible, use pharmacy for minor ailments (pharmacists offer free advice), and space out non-urgent visits. Some GP practices have social welfare rates for hardship cases—worth asking.

Can I see a different doctor in the same practice?

Yes, if it’s a group practice with multiple GPs. This can make it easier to get appointments. However, for continuity of care, seeing the same doctor consistently is better—they know your history and you build a relationship. Use other doctors for emergencies or when your regular GP unavailable.

Summary

Finding and registering with a GP in Ireland requires patience and persistence:

Key steps:

  1. Start searching immediately - Don’t wait until you’re sick
  2. Use multiple methods - HSE website, ask locals, Facebook groups, Google
  3. Cast wide net - Try 5-10 practices, expand search radius if needed
  4. Call mid-week mornings - Tuesday-Thursday 9-11am best time
  5. Be persistent - Many will say no, keep trying
  6. Prepare documents - ID, proof of address, PPS number
  7. Understand costs - Budget €50-€70 per visit without medical card

Important points:

  • GPs are gatekeepers - Need them for referrals to specialists
  • Not free - €50-€70 per visit (unless medical card)
  • Many not accepting - Especially Dublin, requires persistence
  • Registration usually simple - Bring ID and proof of address
  • Build relationship - Stick with one GP for continuity of care
  • Can change anytime - Not locked in, free to switch
  • Emergency access - Most offer same-day for urgent issues

For medical card holders:

  • All visits free
  • Prioritize mentioning this when searching
  • Some GPs prioritize accepting medical card patients

Costs to budget:

  • Registration: €0-€50
  • Standard visit: €50-€70
  • Prescriptions: Pay at pharmacy separately
  • Drugs Payment Scheme: Max €80/month if registered

Finding a GP is one of your first healthcare priorities in Ireland. Start early, be persistent, and don’t get discouraged by rejections. Once registered, you’ll have access to primary care and the gateway to Ireland’s healthcare system.

For related information, see our healthcare system guide, private health insurance guide, and cost of living guide.