GMS GPs with more than 100 patients may claim contributions towards locum expenses while on sick leave. They may claim up to a maximum of 92 calendar days on full rate in a year, followed by a maximum of 91 calendar days on half rate, subject to a maximum of 183 calendar days paid sick leave in a rolling four year period.

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In cases of critical illness or serious physical injury, it may be possible to claim the full rate for up to 6 months and at half the appropriate rate for a further 6 months. The award of extended sick leave for critical illness or serious physical injury is at the discretion of the HSE.

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Locum contribution rates are dependent on panel size. The locum contribution will be paid in your monthly PCRS payment. Capitation is paid as normal while the GP is on sick leave. 

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The maximum contribution towards locum expenses is €197.24. This rate is paid to GPs with panels of 700+ patients. For GPs with a panel of 100-699 patients, the daily contribution is pro-rata to the previous month's capitation.

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For example:

If the GP's capitation payment was €3,400 last month and there were 31 days in that month, the daily contribution rate would be €109.68 (€3,400 ÷ 31 = €109.68). This is on top of normal capitation payment. 

*Monday to Friday inclusive (only 5 days paid in first week, does not include first weekend). If a GP is out from Monday-Friday, only claim for those dates. If you include the weekend, the days may be counted as sick leave but not paid. However, if they will be out longer, ensure all valid weekends are claimed. You may submit payments into OOH Co-op arrangements as proof of locum remuneration.