The HSE is aiming to trial a new system in the MidWest that will see National Ambulance Service Paramedics conducting home visits and clinical assessments in order to alleviate pressure on out of hours GP services.

A similar trial is currently underway in the North East Health Region and the HSE has confirmed to Clare FM that it's hoping to do the same here.

It follows the busiest Christmas on record for Shannon Doc, when over 4,600 patients received consultations between December 23rd and 30th, up 51% on the figure for the previous year.

Friends of Ennis Hospital Chairperson Angela Coll has been telling Clare FM's Daragh Dolan she's confident this will improve services.