The Government's plans to extend free GP care to all children under six could lead to as many as 750,000 additional visits to GPs a year, according to new research.

IMO GP Chairman Dr Ray Walley, commenting on the findings, said such an increase in patient numbers would 'overwhelm' surgeries and lead to waiting lists for GP visits for the first time in this country.

The study, published in the latest Irish Medical Journal, found that average consultation rates for children who currently have GP visit medical cards was over five per year, while the comparable rate for children whose parents currently have to pay for their GP care was just two per year.

"This research confirms our worst fears and highlights the lack of planning and thought that has gone into the Government's plans," Dr Walley said.

The study included all children aged under six years of age who had first attended the practice more than 12 months previously and had also attended more than once in their lifetime.

A total of 1,931 children aged under six in six practices were included. Of these, 1,277 (66%) were private patients, 583 (30%) were full medical card patients and 71 (4%) had doctor visit medical cards.

The average annual consultation rate by patient category was 4.91 for full medical card patients, 5.07 for doctor visit patients and 2.03 for private patients.

The authors note that although the visiting rates in this study are considerably higher than that reported in much larger studies (e.g. Ireland's longitudinal study of childhood), this study is based on documented clinical activity as opposed to recollection by patient/parents and more consistent with international data.

While policy that enhances access to primary care by introducing free general practice care is welcome, the study authors state: "this study highlights the need for accurate data to allow effective planning and establishment of sustainable models of healthcare."