Rise in chronic illnesses puts pressure on GPs

The number of patients on the Island with six or more chronic health conditions has risen by 71%, according to new statistics.

In a written response, Health Minister Claire Christian revealed that the figure increased from 393 in 2019 to 673 in 2025 and the number of patients with three or more chronic conditions rose by 31%, from 6,458 to 8,445.

Ms Christian noted that people with six or more conditions typically visit their GP up to 15 times a year, compared with around three visits for healthier patients. 

She added that this rise is placing significant pressure on GPs, requiring longer consultations and creating higher demand for appointments.