A Lahinch-based doctor insists that HSE proposals on rural services don't go far enough to address the current crisis within the health service.
The Irish Medical Organisation has rejected proposals contained in new package of measures aimed at improving conditions for GPs in rural areas.
Proposals presented to the Irish Medical Organisation on Wednesday include a number of measures, including an increase in the number of doctors which would qualify for the rural practice allowance.
100 additional doctors would each become eligible for the scheme, and each payments of 16,000 euro.
But doctors say the proposals aren't good enough to deal with the current crisis that's come to the fore here following the recent meetings in Corofin and the fielding of a GP candidate in the General Election here.
The IMO claims it has put forward realistic solutions, including a range of new services that could be offered to patients which are not covered by the current GMS contract.
Lahinch GP Dr Michael Kelleher says negotiations are ongoing.
Meanwhile, a Clare member of the HSE's Regional Health Forum says a lack of supports for GP's is adding to overcrowding at the region's main hospital.
University Hospital Limerick has been experiencing high numbers of patients attending the Emergency Department since the beginning of the new year, particularly those in the older age profile.
Figures from the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation show a slight dip in figures today with 26 people waiting on trolleys, 18 of those in the Emergency Department.
Sixmilebridge Independent Councillor Pj Ryan says the issues facing GPs and hospital staff go hand in hand.
Nationally, elective procedures have been cancelled at a Cork University Hospital, while in Dublin the Mater and Beaumont hospitals are pleading with people to stay away from their Emergency Departments.
Minister Leo Varadkar says everything that can be done is being done to tackle hospital overcrowding.
