Summerhill to host new model primary care centre?

A public meeting to introduce a proposal to build an innovative new primary care centre in Summerhill takes place tonight (Wednesday) in Summerhill Community Centre at 8pm The meeting will hear that planning permission is to be sought for a major new centre in the village incorporating GPs, a pharmacy, HSE staff and a Third Age Centre for older people. Summerhill has been designated as an area which is suitable for a primary care team and the idea is to bring GPs, public health nurses and such professions as physiotherapists, occupational therapists and homecare all under the one roof. At present, the GPs and public health nurses operate from different centres in Summerhill. Local GP Dr Joe Clarke, who is leading the project, said the Summerhill Primary Care Centre will be unique and a first in Ireland by virtue of having the Third Age Foundation incorporated into the plans. "Working as a team with all community services will give the opportunity to greatly increase the range and quality of services and avoid people having to end up in overcrowded hospitals," said Dr Clarke. "Having the Third Age Centre under the same roof will ensure social inclusion for older people and that a wide range of projects such as the award-winning Failte Isteach and Senior Help Line are developed and expanded across the country," he added. It is also hoped the centre will provide a much-needed boost to employment in the south Meath area. Plans are being drawn up in the coming months for the new primary care centre, which is to be located close to the existing GP surgery on the Rathmolyon Road. It is hoped the new medical facility will be completed by the end of 2011. Local people are being encouraged to attend the meeting to hear about this exciting development which will benefit all residents in the area.