Patient removals from local GPs needs examined

NEWRY and Armagh has recorded the highest number of patient deregistrations in Northern Ireland.

In 2025, 80 patients were removed from GP lists across the constituency. Three of these were the result of incidents reported to police.

In the fist quarter of this year alone, figures obtained by local MLA Gareth Wilson reveal that 10 patients were deregistered at the surgery’s request.

Mr Wilson has said the reasons behind a high number of patients being removed from GP practice lists in Newry and Armagh should be examined, while recognising the pressures facing both patients and primary care services.

The surgery-requested patient removals during 2025/26 in Newry and Armagh was the highest published figure in the Department's constituency breakdown.

Mr Wilson said:

'Recent figures obtained from the Department of Health show a significant number of patients in Newry and Armagh have been removed from GP practice lists, and I believe it is important that we better understand the factors contributing to these figures. Especially given the disparity of numbers compared to other constituencies.

“I fully recognise that there will be legitimate circumstances where a GP practice has no option but to remove a patient from its list. Healthcare staff should never have to endure abuse, threats or intimidation, and there will be occasions where a doctor-patient relationship has broken down to such an extent that removal is unavoidable.

“However, removal from a GP list should always be a measure of last resort. Every reasonable effort should be made to resolve difficulties, restore communication and maintain the relationship between patients and their practice wherever possible.

“The recent report by the Northern Ireland Public Services Ombudsman highlighted a number of concerns regarding the handling of patient removals and reinforced the importance of transparency, fairness and adherence to the proper procedures in every case. It also pointed to the importance of exhausting alternative options before patient removal is considered.

“There is also a wider issue that cannot be ignored. Many constituents tell me they are increasingly frustrated by difficulties accessing GP services. People regularly report challenges securing appointments, delays in being seen and difficulties contacting their practice.

“That frustration does not excuse unacceptable behaviour towards healthcare professionals, but it does illustrate the growing pressures within primary care. If patients feel they cannot access the care they need, tensions can inevitably increase.

“I intend to raise this matter with the Health Minister to gain a better understanding of what is driving these figures in Newry and Armagh and to ensure that any lessons identified are acted upon.

“It is important that patients have confidence in the system, that GP practices receive the support they need and that patient removals only occur when all reasonable alternatives have been exhausted.

“Improving access to GP services must remain a key priority. Better access is in the interests of patients, GPs and the wider health service, and would help address many of the frustrations currently being experienced on all sides.'