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Minister for Health, Stephen Donnelly TD, has today welcomed confirmation that the HSE is to make available to GPs increased direct access to diagnostic services from this week. The initiative will give GPs across the country the ability to access an additional 94,000 diagnostic procedures, such as X-Rays, CT scans, MRIs, and DEXA*.

The Minister for Health said: “This new development will have a significant impact on the diagnosis and treatment of patients. It will allow faster access to necessary diagnostic procedures, leading to more timely treatment and improved patient experience.”

The new supports will also assist in reducing pressures placed on hospitals and the shortening of waiting lists.

It is anticipated that additional diagnostic services, including direct access to BNP testing, spirometry, and echocardiography, will also be made available to GPs in due course. These services will support GPs in the delivery of improved patient care within the Chronic Disease Management Programme.