GP Closed? What to Do Out of Hours in Ireland

Step 1: is it an emergency?

Call 112 or 999 straight away if there is chest pain or pressure, severe difficulty breathing, signs of a stroke (face drooping, arm weakness, slurred speech), heavy bleeding, a serious injury, a seizure, or someone is unresponsive. Do not wait for an appointment.

Step 2: choose the right place for a non-emergency

Online doctor (DrCall): a video or phone consultation for everyday problems, with a prescription, certificate or advice where appropriate — available every day, including evenings and weekends.
Out-of-hours GP service: a local service for urgent problems that cannot wait until the surgery reopens. You usually phone first, and it may involve travelling to a clinic. Many areas have their own number, which you can find through the HSE.
Pharmacist: good for minor ailments, advice on over-the-counter medicines and emergency contraception.
Emergency department: for serious or life-threatening problems — not for minor illness.

Which one for which problem?

A sore throat, a cold, a urinary infection, a rash, a sick note or a repeat prescription can often be handled through an online GP. A suspected broken bone, a deep cut, severe pain or anything that needs an examination or tests needs in-person care.

If you are not sure, start with an online consultation: your doctor will tell you honestly if you need to be seen in person, and where.

Be prepared next time

Save your local out-of-hours number in your phone
Keep a list of your medicines and allergies
Know your pharmacy’s opening hours
Keep the DrCall booking page bookmarked for evenings and weekends

Frequently asked questions

What do I do if my GP is closed and I am not sure it is an emergency?

If there is any chance of a life-threatening problem, call 112 or 999. If not, an online GP, an out-of-hours service or your pharmacist can help, depending on the problem.

Is an online doctor the same as an out-of-hours GP?

No. Out-of-hours services handle urgent problems and are usually local. An online doctor is a remote consultation for non-emergency problems, available across Ireland.

Can an online doctor send a prescription when my GP is closed?

Where appropriate, yes. It is sent to the Irish pharmacy you choose.

Do I need to pay to use an out-of-hours GP?

Fees vary by service and by whether you hold a medical card. Check with the service when you call.

Official sources and further reading

HSE: find urgent and emergency care

This page is general information for patients in Ireland, not a diagnosis or personal medical advice. If you are worried about your health, speak to a doctor. In an emergency call 112 or 999.

Find an online doctor near you

DrCall serves every county in Ireland. Choose your area: