A primary care-based health needs assessment in inner city Dublin

Background In 2001, a primary care-based health needs assessment (HNA) in South Inner City of Dublin identified high levels of morbidity and widespread and frequent use of primary care and specialist hospital services as particular concerns. Aims This study aims to determine the primary care health needs of a local community, from the perspective of service users and service providers. Methods A similar methodology to our 2001 HNA was adopted, involving semi-structured interviews with a convenience sample of patients attending two general practices and key informants regarding local health issues and health service utilisation. Results High levels of morbidity and chronic illness were found. A correlation between the local environment and ill-health was identified, as well as high utilisation of primary care services in the area. Conclusion The establishment of a Primary Care Team would begin to address the health needs of the community.