# General practitioner shortage in Bornholm

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/general-practitioner-shortage-in-bornholm
> Updated: 2026-08-20T22:23:04.000Z. Sources: 3. Developments: 2.

The island of Bornholm is experiencing an increasing shortage of general practitioners, threatening local healthcare access. As of August 2026, 82 percent of medical practices on the island have closed to new patients, a rise from 77 percent in 2025 and 61 percent in the first half of 2026.

While all residents currently have access to a doctor, Bornholm has been designated a “threatened area for medical coverage” at both regional and national levels. Projections suggest that if practices lower patient numbers to the 2027 minimum threshold, the island would face a shortage equivalent to 2.7 doctors.

In response, a special ‘Bornholmerpakke’ has been allocated to fund increased medical capacities, provide subsidies for high-volume practices, and hire staff. Local organizations are also working through ‘Lægeveje Bornholm’ to improve facilities and offer educational opportunities to attract new physicians.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-20: Bornholm faces growing shortage of general practitioners

Medical shortages on Bornholm have reached a point where 82 percent of local practices are closed to new patients, prompting regional authorities to implement a special support package.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/bornholm-faces-growing-shortage-of-general-practitioners

### 2026-08-07: Ireland faces growing shortage of general practitioners

Ireland’s GP shortage, with population up 10 % and doctors up only 6 %, leaves thousands unable to secure a family doctor, prompting HSE action.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ireland-faces-growing-shortage-of-general-practitioners

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Cite as: General practitioner shortage in Bornholm. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/general-practitioner-shortage-in-bornholm