Efforts to secure a new doctor for the Gortnahoe and Ballysloe areas of South Tipperary are proving unsuccessful.
The local GP is due to retire at the end of the year with many of his patients concerned that they may have to transfer to practices outside of the area.
A public meeting on the issue in Gortnahoe last night drew a large turnout with Medical Card holders in particular fearful of what will happen on December 31st.
Deputy Michael Lowry says the HSE is still trying to find a replacement and has written to doctors in neighbouring towns not to transfer patients for now.
He and the Health Service Executive fear that any dissipation of Medical Card holders will reduce the chance of finding a doctor willing to set up a practice in the locality.
