Practicing more Self-Care has the potential to ease the GP crisis by freeing up one working hour per GP per day

Date: Wednesday 23^rd July 2025

 The Irish Pharmaceutical Healthcare Association (IPHA) has today launched a new report highlighting the untapped potential of Self-Care in improving public health and reducing pressure on Ireland’s healthcare system. The research, unveiled ahead of Self-Care Awareness Day on July 24th, reveals that patients in Ireland currently save €727 million annually by managing minor ailments through Self-Care — but with greater adoption, they could save an additional €166 million.

According to the research, for every €1 spent on over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, patients in Ireland, the HSE and the economy combined save on average €10.70, thanks to reduced GP visits, lower treatment costs, and improved time efficiency. While the HSE annually saves €495 million as a consequence of patients managing minor ailments, with further emphasis on Self-Care, savings of an additional €113 million could also be achieved.

Crucially, Self-Care can relieve the pressures on an overburdened GP system by freeing up an additional one working hour per GP per day allowing them to instead treat patients with more serious conditions. A move towards the practice of more Self-Care in community settings aligns with the objectives of Sláintecare and recent developments in the HSE’s Common Conditions Service.

“The message is clear: Self-Care is not alone care — it’s smart care, supported by pharmacists and aligned with public health priorities,” said Oliver O’ Connor, Chief Executive at IPHA. “As we face growing pressures on general practice, we must integrate responsible Self-Care into policy, education, and community health strategies.”

The report underscores that Self-Care is already delivering results — but with the right support, it could be transformative for patients, practitioners, and the wider health system. IPHA therefore suggests five key recommendations which, if implemented, could see a greater level of Self-Care practiced in Ireland to benefit the wider healthcare system and the economy:

• Integrate Self-Care into national health policy
• Reclassify suitable medicines from prescription to OTC
• Expand pharmacist-led Self-Care services
• Invest in digital health tools to support informed Self-Care decisions
• Launch public awareness and health literacy campaigns

By embracing the full potential of Self-Care, we can create a more resilient, efficient, and accessible healthcare system for everyone.

• Click here to read the summary version of our Socio-Economic Report
• Click here to read our full report into the Socio-Economic Value of Self-Care in Ireland

ENDS
Media Contact:
Yvonne Jones
IPHA Communications and Partnerships Manager
[info@ipha.ie | +353 (0)863412196]