Sir, – The proposed €350 million acquisition of Centric Health by a US healthcare group marks another significant step towards the corporatisation of Irish general practice.
General practice has traditionally been built on continuity of care, clinical independence and the long-standing relationship between doctors, patients and their communities. These are fundamental strengths of our healthcare system, not simply commercial assets.
The increasing involvement of private equity and multinational healthcare corporations raises serious concerns about the future direction of primary care in Ireland. When healthcare becomes an investment vehicle, there is an inevitable tension between delivering patient-centred care and generating financial returns for shareholders.
While corporate investment may bring efficiencies and additional resources, we must question whether increasing market consolidation will ultimately improve accessibility, affordability and continuity of care, particularly in rural communities.
Irish general practice should be driven by the needs of patients and communities, rather than the financial expectations of international investors.
The long-term consequences of this transformation deserve far greater public debate. – Yours, etc,
DR JOE LOFTUS,
General practitioner
Castlebar,
Co Mayo.