The GP Podcast

Early Medical Abortion (EMA) in Primary Care - Part 1

Irish College of GPs — Wed, 10 Jun 2026 02:00:00 +0100

Participants

Dr Ciara McCarthy - GP Lead in Women's Health, HSE and Irish College of GPs

Dr Laura Cullen - Director of Women's Health, Irish College of GPs

Dr John Maher - Host

Summary

This two-part conversation reviews the provision of Early Medical Abortion (EMA) in primary care Ireland, based on the Irish College of GPs Quick Reference Guide "Early Medical Abortion: Top Ten Tips for Non-Providing General Practitioners" which is available on the College website. We will refer to this QRG throughout our conversation.

In today’s episode, which is part one, Ciara and Laura discuss the legal and ethical framework of EMA provision in primary care in Ireland, resources available through My Options, the three-visit structure in primary care and what takes place at each step, an overview of medications administered, safety, efficacy and follow-up, and the importance of providing care in a patient-centred manner, including considerations for patients living in more remote locations.

Links to Core Irish College of GP Resources referenced during episode

• QRG: Early Medical Abortion: Top Ten Tips for Non-Providing General Practitioners

• QRG: Clinical Support for Termination of Pregnancy in General Practice

• Checklist for. GPs preparing to provide a termination of pregnancy service - Appendix 2 of QRG

• Digital Blended Learning: Early Medical Abortion

Links to Other Useful Resources Mentioned

• Health (Regulation of Termination of Pregnancy) Act 2018

• Irish Medical Council Guide to Professional Conduct & Ethics for Registered Medical Practitioners - 9th Edition 2024
• HSE Unplanned Pregnancy Supports (Including My Options)

Disclaimer
The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to serve as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, nor does it replace independent clinical judgment or consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.

The views and opinions expressed by hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the Irish College of GPs.

Listeners are encouraged to review current clinical guidelines, product labelling, and relevant policies before applying any information discussed in this podcast.

This podcast does not establish a doctor–patient relationship. Healthcare professionals should exercise their own professional judgment in evaluating and applying information to specific clinical situations. Patients or members of the public should seek advice from their own qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical condition or treatment. It may not be possible or appropriate in all circumstances to follow the advice/processes suggested in this podcast, for example due to resource availability.

While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, medicine is a constantly evolving field, and no guarantee is made regarding the completeness, accuracy, or timeliness of the information presented.

By listening to this podcast, you acknowledge and agree that the hosts, guests, producers, affiliated organizations and the Irish College of GPs are not liable for any direct or indirect consequences resulting from the use of the information provided.

Subscribe, like and review wherever you get your podcasts.
Webpage: https://www.irishcollegeofgps.ie/The-GP-Podcast
Email: podcast@icgp.ie

Wednesday Webinar Preview: 03 June 2026

Irish College of GPs — Wed, 03 Jun 2026 02:00:00 +0100

Participants

Dr Suzanne Kelly, Deputy Medical Director, Irish College of GPs
Dr John Maher - Host

Summary
Suzanne previews tonight's Wednesday Webinar (03 June 2026). You will find a link to the College webinar recordings page here. This will include a recording of this month's webinar, once it becomes available in the coming days.

Suzanne also discusses the new PCS cycle, the value of the PCS practice development plan at this time of year, and the role of College in providing courses to GPs that address the learning needs of clinicians in practice at every stage of their career.

Please note that this is the last episode before our summer break. We plan to return with another series in September. In the meantime, we’ll re-release some of the early episodes that you may have missed first time around, on a fortnightly basis, to reflect the academic downtime many GPs look forward to at this time of year.

Many thanks for listening, rating and reviewing, and stay tuned for Series 2 in September!

Wednesday Webinar Topics and Speakers - 03 June 2026:

Introduction - Dr Diarmuid Quinlan, Medical Director, Irish College of GPs
HIV PrEP and doxyPEP - Updates (Prof Fiona Lyons, Clinical Lead, HSE Sexual Health Programme)
Photoprotection (Dr Siobhan Twohig, GP at Thomond Park Clinic, Limerick)
Preventing Dementia: The 14-Point Checklist and the Shingles Shot (Prof Tony Foley, Dept of General Practice, University College Cork; GP in Kinsale)
Vignette: Runner's Knee (Dr Billy Twomey, GP in Dublin)

Links

The views and opinions expressed by hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the Irish College of GPs.

Listeners are encouraged to review current clinical guidelines, product labelling, and relevant policies before applying any information discussed in this podcast.

While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, medicine is a constantly evolving field, and no guarantee is made regarding the completeness, accuracy, or timeliness of the information presented.

Subscribe, like and review wherever you get your podcasts.
Webpage: https://www.irishcollegeofgps.ie/The-GP-Podcast
Email: podcast@icgp.ie

Therapeutics in Primary Care: Asthma Part 2

Irish College of GPs — Wed, 27 May 2026 02:00:00 +0100

Participants

Dr Paul Ryan, Therapeutics Clinical Lead, Irish College of GPs
Dr John Maher - Host

Summary

Dr John Maher is joined by Dr. Paul Ryan to resume their discussion of Asthma Management in General Practice (this is part 2 of 2).

Today, Paul discusses:

Current guidelines and recommendations, including the 2024 Joint Guideline from the British Thoracic Society, NICE and SIGN;
The five steps in managing asthma in primary care, incorporating AIR (Anti-Inflammatory Reliever) and MART (Maintenance And Reliever Therapy) devices;
Uncontrolled asthma and managing acute exacerbations, including younger cohorts;
Considering future risk of acute exacerbations.

Links

The views and opinions expressed by hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the Irish College of GPs.

Listeners are encouraged to review current clinical guidelines, product labelling, and relevant policies before applying any information discussed in this podcast.

While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, medicine is a constantly evolving field, and no guarantee is made regarding the completeness, accuracy, or timeliness of the information presented.

Subscribe, like and review wherever you get your podcasts.
Webpage: https://www.irishcollegeofgps.ie/The-GP-Podcast
Email: podcast@icgp.ie

Therapeutics in Primary Care: Asthma Part 1

Irish College of GPs — Wed, 20 May 2026 02:30:00 +0100

Participants

Dr Paul Ryan, Therapeutics Clinical Lead, Irish College of GPs
Dr John Maher - Host

Summary

Dr John Maher is joined by Dr. Paul Ryan to discuss Asthma management in General Practice. This is a two part series.

In today's episode (part 1), Paul discusses:

Establishing diagnosis in patients with suspected asthma in adults, 5-16yo, and under 5yo cohorts;
Special considerations in under 5s, where objective tests may be less feasible;
Reviewing and risk-stratifying patients with confirmed asthma, including the risks of salbutamol overuse;
Audit and practice improvement project opportunities to optimise management of patients living with asthma under our care.

We will follow up next week week with part 2, where Paul discusses:

Current guidelines and recommendations, including the 2024 Joint Guideline from the British Thoracic Society, NICE and SIGN;
An overview of the five steps in managing asthma in primary care, incorporating AIR (Anti-Inflammatory Reliever) and MART (Maintenance And Reliever Therapy) devices;
Uncontrolled asthma and managing acute exacerbations;
The importance of considering future risk of acute exacerbations, and when to refer to secondary care for specialist input.

Links

The views and opinions expressed by hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the Irish College of GPs.

Listeners are encouraged to review current clinical guidelines, product labelling, and relevant policies before applying any information discussed in this podcast.

While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, medicine is a constantly evolving field, and no guarantee is made regarding the completeness, accuracy, or timeliness of the information presented.

Subscribe, like and review wherever you get your podcasts.
Webpage: https://www.irishcollegeofgps.ie/The-GP-Podcast
Email: podcast@icgp.ie

Management of Lipids

Irish College of GPs — Wed, 13 May 2026 02:00:00 +0100

Participants

Dr Eamonn O’Shea, Cardiovascular Lead, Irish College of GPs
Dr David McConaghy, Prevention Lead, Irish College of GPs
Dr John Maher, GP - Host

Summary

Eamonn and David discuss the positive impact of appropriately managing elevated lipids on cardiovascular risk, focusing on LDL cholesterol targets for different risk groups, the initiation of lipid-lowering therapy, management of side effects, and therapeutics considerations for women of childbearing age.

They also highlight the opportunity presented by the HSE Prevention Programme (OCF, PP and CDM) to review and optimise LDL target levels based on risk stratification. They discuss therapies including how and when to initiate bempedoic acid, the role of integrated care hubs, and the emerging measurement of lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] as an independent risk factor.

Links

The views and opinions expressed by hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the Irish College of GPs.

Listeners are encouraged to review current clinical guidelines, product labelling, and relevant policies before applying any information discussed in this podcast.

While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, medicine is a constantly evolving field, and no guarantee is made regarding the completeness, accuracy, or timeliness of the information presented.

Subscribe, like and review wherever you get your podcasts.
Webpage: https://www.irishcollegeofgps.ie/The-GP-Podcast
Email: podcast@icgp.ie

Wednesday Webinar Preview: 06 May 2026

Irish College of GPs — Wed, 06 May 2026 02:00:00 +0100

Participants

Dr Suzanne Kelly, Deputy Medical Director, Irish College of GPs
Dr John Maher - Host

Summary
This episode previews tonight's Wednesday Webinar (06 May 2026). You will find a link to the College webinar recordings page here. This will include a recording of this month's webinar, once it becomes available in the coming days.

The webinar will be introduced by today's guest, Dr Suzanne Kelly, Deputy Medical Director, Irish College of GPs.

Wednesday Webinar Topics and Speakers:

Introduction - Dr Suzanne Kelly, Deputy Medical Director, Irish College of GPs
Consent and Shared Decision Making - Dr James Thorpe, Medicolegal Consultant at the Medical Protection Society
Allergic Rhinitis Not to be Sniffed At - Dr Cristina Warren, GP with Extended Role in ENT
Bit by a Tick. Help? - Professor Eoin Feeney, Consultant in Infectious Diseases, St Vincent's Hospital; Adjunct Clinical Professor, UCD
Vignette: PCS ePortfolio - Dr Ciaran O'Fearraigh, Irish College of GPs GP Officer for Lifelong Learning

Links

The views and opinions expressed by hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the Irish College of GPs.

Listeners are encouraged to review current clinical guidelines, product labelling, and relevant policies before applying any information discussed in this podcast.

While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, medicine is a constantly evolving field, and no guarantee is made regarding the completeness, accuracy, or timeliness of the information presented.

Subscribe, like and review wherever you get your podcasts.
Webpage: https://www.irishcollegeofgps.ie/The-GP-Podcast
Email: podcast@icgp.ie

ADHD in Primary Care - Part 2

Irish College of GPs — Wed, 29 Apr 2026 06:00:00 +0100

Participants

Dr Aoife O'Sullivan, Clinical Lead in Mental Health, Irish College of GPs
Dr Brian Osborne, Assistant Medical Director and Director of Mental Health Programme, Irish College of GPs
Dr John Maher - Host

Summary

This is part 2 of our discussion on Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in Primary Care. The conversation is based on a distance learning module developed by Aoife and printed in the March 2025 edition of Forum magazine.

Please listen to Part 1 first - available now in the show feed of your podcast player.

Links

Other Links from Part 1 of this 2-part series

The views and opinions expressed by hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the Irish College of GPs.

Listeners are encouraged to review current clinical guidelines, product labelling, and relevant policies before applying any information discussed in this podcast.

While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, medicine is a constantly evolving field, and no guarantee is made regarding the completeness, accuracy, or timeliness of the information presented.

Subscribe, like and review wherever you get your podcasts.
Webpage: https://www.irishcollegeofgps.ie/The-GP-Podcast
Email: podcast@icgp.ie

ADHD in Primary Care - Part 1

Irish College of GPs — Wed, 29 Apr 2026 02:00:00 +0100

Participants

Dr Aoife O'Sullivan, Clinical Lead in Mental Health - Irish College of GPs
Dr Brian Osborne, Assistant Medical Director; Director of Mental Health Programme - Irish College of GPs
Dr John Maher (Host)

Summary
In this first episode of a two-part series, Dr. John Maher discusses Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in primary care with Dr. Aoife O'Sullivan and Dr. Brian Osborne . The conversation is based on the Forum distance learning module "ADHD: Diagnosis and Management" written by Aoife and published in the March 2025 edition of Forum magazine.

Links

Links in part 2 of this 2-part series

The views and opinions expressed by hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the Irish College of GPs.

Listeners are encouraged to review current clinical guidelines, product labelling, and relevant policies before applying any information discussed in this podcast.

While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, medicine is a constantly evolving field, and no guarantee is made regarding the completeness, accuracy, or timeliness of the information presented.

Subscribe, like and review wherever you get your podcasts.
Webpage: https://www.irishcollegeofgps.ie/The-GP-Podcast
Email: podcast@icgp.ie

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: GP Update Part 2

Irish College of GPs — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 07:00:00 +0100

Participants

Dr Shane McKeogh - Adult Respiratory Clinical Lead, Irish College of GPs; Chronic Disease Lead, HSE
Dr John Maher - Host

Summary

This is part 2 of our discussion on COPD in General Practice, based on the Irish College of GPs “Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: General Practice Update” published in October 2025 and available from this link on the College website.

This is the second part of my conversation with Shane, so please listen to part 1 first, if you haven’t already done so. It’s available in the show feed now.

Today, Shane continues our discussion, with topics including:

Pharmacological interventions in COPD, based on breathlessness and exacerbation assessment;
An approach to augmenting therapy for symptomatic patients with established COPD;
The role of eosinophils;
The Evolution of Care in Ireland via HSE Integrated Care Hubs and CDM Programme.

Links

The views and opinions expressed by hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the Irish College of GPs.

Listeners are encouraged to review current clinical guidelines, product labelling, and relevant policies before applying any information discussed in this podcast.

While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, medicine is a constantly evolving field, and no guarantee is made regarding the completeness, accuracy, or timeliness of the information presented.

Subscribe, like and review wherever you get your podcasts.
Webpage: https://www.irishcollegeofgps.ie/The-GP-Podcast
Email: podcast@icgp.ie

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: GP Update Part 1

Irish College of GPs — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 01:30:00 +0100

Participants

Dr Shane McKeogh - Adult Respiratory Clinical Lead, Irish College of GPs; Chronic Disease Lead, HSE

Dr John Maher - Host

Summary

In this first episode in a two-part series, Dr John Maher is joined by Dr. Shane McKeogh to discuss COPD in General Practice. Our conversation follows the recent launch of The Irish College of GPs “Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: General Practice Update” published in October 2025 and available from this link on the College website.

This first part covers topics including:

How COPD management has been streamlined and simplified in recent years;

The role and value of new HSE Community Hubs in more timely diagnosis and patient support;

Assessing newly diagnosed patients by considering breathlessness and exacerbations;

Non-pharmacological management strategies for COPD.

Part 2 of this conversation is also available now, with topics including:

Pharmacological interventions in COPD, based on breathlessness and exacerbation assessment;

An approach to augmenting therapy for symptomatic patients with established COPD;

The role of eosinophils;

The Evolution of Care in Ireland via HSE Integrated Care Hubs and the CDM Programme.

Links
Irish College of GPs Website

Respiratory Clinical Hub
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: General Practice Update (Irish College of GPs, October 2025)

HSE Area Finder

COPD Support Ireland Website

COPD.ie “COPD & Me” Booklet

Antibioticprescribing.ie: Infective Exacerbation of COPD

The views and opinions expressed by hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the Irish College of GPs.

Listeners are encouraged to review current clinical guidelines, product labelling, and relevant policies before applying any information discussed in this podcast.

While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, medicine is a constantly evolving field, and no guarantee is made regarding the completeness, accuracy, or timeliness of the information presented.

Subscribe, like and review wherever you get your podcasts.
Webpage: https://www.irishcollegeofgps.ie/The-GP-Podcast
Email: podcast@icgp.ie

Type 2 Diabetes: General Practice Update Part 2

Irish College of GPs — Wed, 15 Apr 2026 01:00:00 +0100

Participants

Dr Lisa Devine - National Clinical Lead for Diabetes, Irish College of GPs and HSE
Dr John Maher - Host

Summary

This is part 2 of our discussion on Type 2 Diabetes in General Practice, based on the Irish College of GPs Type 2 Diabetes GPU, published in November 2025, and available from this link on the College website.

This is the second part of my conversation with Lisa, so please listen to part 1 first, if you haven’t already done so.

Today, Lisa continues our discussion, with topics including:

Pharmacological interventions, with a focus on individualising therapies;
Managing other CV risk factors in T2DM;
Potential Complications;
Audit opportunities.

Links

The views and opinions expressed by hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the Irish College of GPs.

Listeners are encouraged to review current clinical guidelines, product labelling, and relevant policies before applying any information discussed in this podcast.

While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, medicine is a constantly evolving field, and no guarantee is made regarding the completeness, accuracy, or timeliness of the information presented.

Subscribe, like and review wherever you get your podcasts.
Webpage: https://www.irishcollegeofgps.ie/The-GP-Podcast
Email: podcast@icgp.ie

Type 2 Diabetes: General Practice Update Part 1

Irish College of GPs — Wed, 08 Apr 2026 01:00:00 +0100

Participants

Dr Lisa Devine - National Clinical Lead for Diabetes, Irish College of GPs and HSE
Dr John Maher - Host

Summary

In this first episode in a two-part series, Dr John Maher is joined by Dr. Lisa Devine to discuss Type 2 Diabetes in General Practice. Our conversation follows the recent launch of The Irish College of GPs “Type 2 Diabetes: General Practice Update” published in November 2025 and available from this link on the College website.

This first part covers topics including:

Recent changes in approach to T2DM Management;
Focused Screening and making the diagnosis;
Management of Pre-diabetes;
Non pharmacological management strategies for T2DM.

Part 2 of this conversation is also available now in the show feed of your podcast player, with topics including:

Pharmacological interventions, with a focus on individualising therapies;
Managing other CV risk factors in T2DM;
Potential Complications;
Audit opportunities.

Links

The views and opinions expressed by hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the Irish College of GPs.

Listeners are encouraged to review current clinical guidelines, product labelling, and relevant policies before applying any information discussed in this podcast.

While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, medicine is a constantly evolving field, and no guarantee is made regarding the completeness, accuracy, or timeliness of the information presented.

Subscribe, like and review wherever you get your podcasts.
Webpage: https://www.irishcollegeofgps.ie/The-GP-Podcast
Email: podcast@icgp.ie

Wednesday Webinar Preview: 01 April 2026

Irish College of GPs — Wed, 01 Apr 2026 01:00:00 +0100

Participants

• Dr John Maher - Host

Summary
This episode previews tonight's Wednesday Webinar (1 April 2026). A link to the recording will be added to the show notes in the coming days, once it becomes available.

The webinar will be introduced by Dr Suzanne Kelly, Deputy Medical Director, Irish College of GPs.

Topics and Speakers:

Assessment and Management of Pain in Life Limiting Conditions - Dr David Byrne, St Francis Hospice Blanchardstown
Open Disclosure in General Practice - Dr Siobhan O'Flaherty, GP Clinical Risk Advisor, Medisec
"Skip the Dip" - Dr Scott Walkin, Clinical Lead for Antimicrobial Resistance and Infection Control, Irish College of GPs
Cocaine Use - The GP Perspective - Dr Des Crowley, Academic Lead, Addiction Management Programme, Irish College of GPs

Links:
Irish College of GPs - Podcast Page
Wednesday Webinar Page (Including Links to Recordings)

Subscribe, like and review wherever you get your podcasts.
Webpage: https://www.irishcollegeofgps.ie/The-GP-Podcast
Email: podcast@icgp.ie

Codeine Misuse and Dependance in Primary Care

Irish College of GPs — Wed, 25 Mar 2026 01:00:00 +0000

Participants

• Dr Bernard Kenny, GP Specialising in Substance Misuse; Director of Addiction Management in Primary Care, Irish College of GPs

• Dr John Maher - Host

Summary

In this Dr John Maher is joined by Dr Bernard Kenny to discuss codeine misuse and dependence in primary care. The conversation follows the recent launch or the newly revised Irish College of GPs Foundation Course in Addiction Management.

The course is free for Irish College of GP members, and is also suitable for GP Registrars and Practice Nurses. It attracts GMS study leave and CPD credits.

Completing the foundation course is a prerequisite for those interested in pursuing a Level 1 Opioid Substitution Therapy (OST) contract with the HSE.

College Links:

Other Relevant Links:

OST Protocol – How to Become a Prescriber
HSE OST Guidelines 2017
Drug misuse and dependence: UK guidelines on clinical management
HRB Bulletin: 2024 Drug Treatment Demand
HPRA review of over the counter medications containing codeine
Health Research Board Drug and Alcohol Survey
Patterns of Analgesic Prescribing and High-Risk Prescribing in Primary Care in Ireland 2014-2022-a Repeated Cross-Sectional Study. European Journal of Pain. 2025. Mattsson M, Hassan Ali A, Boland F, et al

The views and opinions expressed by hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the Irish College of GPs.

Listeners are encouraged to review current clinical guidelines, product labelling, and relevant policies before applying any information discussed in this podcast.

While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, medicine is a constantly evolving field, and no guarantee is made regarding the completeness, accuracy, or timeliness of the information presented.

Subscribe, like and review wherever you get your podcasts.
Webpage: https://www.irishcollegeofgps.ie/The-GP-Podcast
Email: podcast@icgp.ie

Managing Depression in Primary Care - Part 2

Irish College of GPs — Wed, 18 Mar 2026 01:00:00 +0000

Participants

• Dr Aoife O'Sullivan, Clinical Lead in Mental Health, Irish College of GPs

• Dr Brian Osborne, Assistant Medical Director and Director of Mental Health Programme, Irish College of GPs

• Dr John Maher - Host

Summary

This is part 2 of our conversation on Managing Depression in Primary Care with Dr Aoife O’Sullivan and Dr Brian Osborne, based on their 2023 Quick Reference Guide (QRG) titled “Managing Depression in Primary Care.

if you haven’t had a chance to listen to part 1 yet, please start there – it’s available now in the show feed.

We wrapped up part one with a discussion of the first link in the “Jump To” box on the front page of the QRG, which was Talk Therapy Options. Today, we cover the remaining 3 quick links on the front page:

· Medication Considerations;

· Switching medications;

· Referral to secondary care.

We wrap up today with a discussion around potential audit and practice improvement initiatives.

You may find it useful to have the QRG to hand as you listen.

Links

· Irish College of GPs: Mental Health Clinical Hub

· Managing Depression in Primary Care: Quick Reference Guide (Irish College of GPs, June 2023)

Assessment Tools (MDCalc)

· Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9)

· Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS)

· Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS-15)

Selected services for accessing free/low cost psychotherapy:

· Jigsaw (Free support for 12-25yo)

· Pieta

· Turn2Me

· MyMind (up to 6 free sessions of CBT for men over 18yo - as of September 2025)

· Textabout.ie (Free text 50808)

See page 7-8 of the Depression QRG for links to numerous additional non-pharmacological services.

The views and opinions expressed by hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the Irish College of GPs.

Listeners are encouraged to review current clinical guidelines, product labelling, and relevant policies before applying any information discussed in this podcast.

While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, medicine is a constantly evolving field, and no guarantee is made regarding the completeness, accuracy, or timeliness of the information presented.

Subscribe, like and review wherever you get your podcasts.
Webpage: https://www.irishcollegeofgps.ie/The-GP-Podcast
Email: podcast@icgp.ie

Managing Depression in Primary Care - Part 1

Irish College of GPs — Wed, 18 Mar 2026 00:30:00 +0000

Participants

• Dr Aoife O'Sullivan, Clinical Lead in Mental Health, Irish College of GPs

• Dr Brian Osborne, Assistant Medical Director and Director of Mental Health Programme, Irish College of GPs

• Dr John Maher - Host

Summary

In this first episode in a two-part series, Dr John Maher is joined by Dr Aoife O'Sullivan and Dr Brian Osborne to discuss the Irish College of GPs’ 2023 Quick Reference Guide (QRG) “Managing Depression in Primary Care.“

Our conversation focuses on the usability of the QRG for GPs in day to day practice. The front page of the guide has a “Jump To” box, with 4 quick links to sections that GPs might need during a consultation:

· Talk Therapy Options (Psychotherapy);

· Medications;

· Switching medications;

· Referral to secondary care.

We begin today with a broader conversation that includes:

· Depression epidemiology and its burden on individuals and health systems;

· The phenomenon of increased mental health presentations by younger people in the primary care setting;

· A suggested approach to the consultation;

· The potential usefulness of assessment tools.

We then focus on the first of the 4 quick links on the QRG front page, which is non-pharmacological options.

Part 2 of this conversation is also available now in the show feed of your podcast player, and continues with a discussion of the remaining 3 quick links on the QRG front page, before wrapping up with some suggestions for possible audit and practice improvement project opportunities.

Links

· Irish College of GPs: Mental Health Clinical Hub

· Managing Depression in Primary Care: Quick Reference Guide (Irish College of GPs, June 2023)

Assessment Tools (MDCalc)

· Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9)

· Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS)

· Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS-15)

Selected services for accessing free/low cost psychotherapy:

· Jigsaw (Free support for 12-25yo)

· Pieta

· Turn2Me

· MyMind (up to 6 free sessions of CBT for men over 18yo - as of September 2025)

· Textabout.ie (Free text 50808)

See page 7-8 of the Depression QRG for links to numerous additional non-pharmacological services.

The views and opinions expressed by hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the Irish College of GPs.

Listeners are encouraged to review current clinical guidelines, product labelling, and relevant policies before applying any information discussed in this podcast.

While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, medicine is a constantly evolving field, and no guarantee is made regarding the completeness, accuracy, or timeliness of the information presented.

Subscribe, like and review wherever you get your podcasts.
Webpage: https://www.irishcollegeofgps.ie/The-GP-Podcast
Email: podcast@icgp.ie

GP in the Out of Hours Setting – An Approach

Irish College of GPs — Wed, 11 Mar 2026 00:30:00 +0000

Participants

Dr David McConaghy - Clinical Lead for Prevention, Irish College of GPs; Medical Director, TLC Doc
Dr John Maher - Host

Summary

We explore an approach to working in the Out of Hours GP (OOHS) setting in Ireland. Dr David shares insights from over 20 years of experience in Ireland and abroad, highlighting the importance of preparation, patient safety, and effective communication. The conversation covers practical advice for newcomers, strategies for managing difficult consultations, and the role of OOHS in supporting both patients and hospital colleagues.

Key themes include the scale of OOHS consultations in Ireland, the importance of slowing down consultations, collaborative working with colleagues, managing requests for controlled drugs and sick certificates, handling house calls and palliative care, and preparing for overnight shifts.

Links

The views and opinions expressed by hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the Irish College of GPs.

Listeners are encouraged to review current clinical guidelines, product labelling, and relevant policies before applying any information discussed in this podcast.

While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, medicine is a constantly evolving field, and no guarantee is made regarding the completeness, accuracy, or timeliness of the information presented.

Subscribe, like and review wherever you get your podcasts.
Webpage: https://www.irishcollegeofgps.ie/The-GP-Podcast
Email: podcast@icgp.ie

Eating Disorders - Part 2

Irish College of GPs — Wed, 04 Mar 2026 07:10:00 +0000

Participants

• Dr Aoife O'Sullivan - Clinical Lead in Mental Health, Irish College of GPs

• Dr John Maher - Host

Summary

This is part 2 of our discussion on Eating Disorders in Primary Care, based on the Irish College of GPs Eating Disorders GPU, published in December 2025 (link below).

This is the second half of my conversation with Aoife, so please go back and listen to part 1 first, if you haven’t had a chance to listen yet.

Today, Aoife discusses aspects of care including

• An approach to focused examination;

• When to organize additional investigations including bloods, ECG and DEXA;

• When to refer to ED vs specialized eating disorder clinics;

• Overview of Medication options;

• Resources for patients and their families.

Links
Irish College of GPs Website
Eating Disorders: General Practice Update (Irish College of GPs, December 2025)
National Clinical Programme for Eating Disorders Model of Care

Overcoming Binge Eating, Dr Christopher G Fairburn

Links from Part 1

Bodywhys.ie - HSE NCPED Eating Disorders App (Apple/iOS)

Bodywhys.ie – Free PiLaR Programme for Families

Irish Emergency Department Guidelines on Eating Disorders

Specialised Eating Disorder Teams

Eating Disorders Contact Teams

SCOFF Questionnaire – MDCalc.com

The views and opinions expressed by hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the Irish College of GPs.

Listeners are encouraged to review current clinical guidelines, product labelling, and relevant policies before applying any information discussed in this podcast.

While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, medicine is a constantly evolving field, and no guarantee is made regarding the completeness, accuracy, or timeliness of the information presented.

Subscribe, like and review wherever you get your podcasts.
Webpage: https://www.irishcollegeofgps.ie/The-GP-Podcast
Email: podcast@icgp.ie

UTI Management in Primary Care

Irish College of GPs — Mon, 23 Feb 2026 13:53:58 +0000

Participants

• Dr Scott Walkin - Clinical Lead for Antimicrobial Resistance and Infection Control, Irish College of GPs

• Dr John Maher - Host

Summary

In today's episode, we discuss antimicrobial management of urinary tract infections (UTIs) in primary care. We explore the challenges of antibiotic stewardship in Ireland, the importance of accurate diagnosis with an emphasis on history and examination, and the role of dipstick urinalysis. We also cover treatment options, management of recurrence, considerations for particular cohorts such as nursing home residents, and importance of safety netting in patient education.

Acknowledgements

Dr Paul Ryan - GP and Pharmacist
Mala Shah - Chief 2 Antimicrobial Pharmacist, HSE
Dr Robyn Traynor - Clinical Microbiology SpR

Links
Irish College of GPs Website
www.antibioticprescribing.ie
Health Protection Surveillance Centre. Surveillance of Antimicrobial Consumption in Ireland – Quarterly Report 2025
Antimicrobial consumption dashboard (ESAC-Net) - European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control
RESIST newsletter - Antimicrobial Resistance and Infection Control (AMRIC) Team

The views and opinions expressed by hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the Irish College of GPs.

Listeners are encouraged to review current clinical guidelines, product labelling, and relevant policies before applying any information discussed in this podcast.

While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, medicine is a constantly evolving field, and no guarantee is made regarding the completeness, accuracy, or timeliness of the information presented.

Subscribe, like and review wherever you get your podcasts.
Webpage: https://www.irishcollegeofgps.ie/The-GP-Podcast
Email: podcast@icgp.ie

Eating Disorders - Part 1

Irish College of GPs — Mon, 23 Feb 2026 12:27:34 +0000

Participants

• Dr Aoife O'Sullivan - Clinical Lead in Mental Health, Irish College of GPs

• Dr John Maher - Host

Summary

In this first episode in a two-part series, Dr John Maher is joined by Dr. Aoife O'Sullivan to discuss Eating Disorders in General Practice. Our conversation follows the recent launch of The Irish College of GPs “Eating Disorders: General Practice Update” published in December 2025 and available from this link on the College website.

This first part covers topics including:

· The emergence and influence of online communities on potentially normalising abnormal behaviours with reference to eating disorders, and more broadly;

· An approach to patients who self-present with eating disorders

· Tips on picking up clues in the consultation that might lead to undertaking an eating disorder screen;

· Morbidity and mortality data;

· the importance of early intervention;

· the importance of recognising the negative internal voice (the anorexia voice or “Ana” voice) that patients with an eating disorder can experience, and the inner conflict it can create.

Part 2 of this conversation is also available now in the show feed of your podcast player.

Links
Irish College of GPs Website
Eating Disorders: General Practice Update (Irish College of GPs, December 2025)
National Clinical Programme for Eating Disorders Model of Care
Bodywhys.ie - HSE NCPED Eating Disorders App (Apple/iOS)

Bodywhys.ie – Free PiLaR Programme for Families

Irish Emergency Department Guidelines on Eating Disorders

Specialised Eating Disorder Teams

Eating Disorders Contact Teams

SCOFF Questionnaire – MDCalc.com
Overcoming Binge Eating, Dr Christopher G Fairburn

See page 7 of the Eating Disorders GPU for numerous additional resources

The views and opinions expressed by hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the Irish College of GPs.

Listeners are encouraged to review current clinical guidelines, product labelling, and relevant policies before applying any information discussed in this podcast.

While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, medicine is a constantly evolving field, and no guarantee is made regarding the completeness, accuracy, or timeliness of the information presented.

Subscribe, like and review wherever you get your podcasts.
Webpage: https://www.irishcollegeofgps.ie/The-GP-Podcast
Email: podcast@icgp.ie

Atrial Fibrillation - General Practice Update 2025

Irish College of GPs — Mon, 23 Feb 2026 12:02:01 +0000

Participants

Dr Eamonn O’Shea, Cardiovascular Lead, Irish College of GPs (Guest)

Dr John Maher, GP (Host)

Summary

This conversation provides an overview of the recently-published Irish College of GPs GPU: “General Practice Update: Atrial Fibrillation in General Practice”.

Eamonn provides an update on managing atrial fibrillation following recently revised international guidelines, including diagnosis, management, and the importance of considering new onset atrial fibrillation in the setting of patient CDM reviews for other conditions.

Eamonn also considers newer aspects of care including the emerging patient use of rhythm-detecting wearables such as smart watches, evidence around use of Kardia devices for clinicians, and the ongoing roll-out of community integrated care hubs to enhance patient care.

Links

· Atrial Fibrillation General Practice Update (October 2025) - Irish College of GPs

· Third Report of the Structured CDM Treatment Programme in General Practice - HSE, 2025

· CHADSVA Calculator - MDCalc

· Anticoagulation Prescribing Tips - Medicines Management Programme, HSE

· General Practice Updates Web Page - Irish College of GPs

· 2024 ESC Guidelines for the Management of Atrial Fibrillation - European Society of Cardiology

· 2023 ACC/AHA/ACCP/HRS Guideline for the Diagnosis and Management of Atrial Fibrillation - American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Joint Committee on Clinical Practice Guidelines

· Irish College of GPs Website

The views and opinions expressed by hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the Irish College of GPs.

Listeners are encouraged to review current clinical guidelines, product labelling, and relevant policies before applying any information discussed in this podcast.

While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, medicine is a constantly evolving field, and no guarantee is made regarding the completeness, accuracy, or timeliness of the information presented.

Subscribe, like and review wherever you get your podcasts.
Webpage: https://www.irishcollegeofgps.ie/The-GP-Podcast
Email: podcast@icgp.ie

Safe Prescribing of Isotretinoin in Primary Care

Irish College of GPs — Sun, 22 Feb 2026 19:57:46 +0000

Participants:
- Dr. Diarmuid Quinlan, GP in Cork; Medical Director of the Irish College of GPs
- Dr. John Maher, GP (Host)

Summary:
Dr. John Maher is joined by Dr. Diarmuid Quinlan to discuss safe prescribing of isotretinoin in primary care, for management of severe acne.

Diarmuid, a GP with over two decades of experience in practice and a special interest in Dermatology, has been prescribing isotretinoin in primary care for patients with severe acne, for over a decade.

Diarmuid introduces the forthcoming Irish College of GPs module “Safe Prescribing of Isotretinoin in Primary Care”, as part of the Irish College of GPs' Dermatology in Practice Certificate, with registration for the module opening on 3 February 2026.

Like the other modules in the certificate programme, clinicians may opt to complete the isotretinoin module “standalone”. The module attracts 4 Accredited CE credits and 0.5 day GMS study leave.

Topics discussed in today’s episode include:

· The value and importance of timely isotretinoin prescribing for suitable patient cohorts;

· the four key clinical competencies that underpin safe management of people with acne using isotretinoin, as identified by Diarmuid in a scoping review authored by him, and published in the British Journal of General Practice in September 2025;

· Details of the Irish College of GPs' Dermatology in Practice Certificate - Isotretinoin Module;

· Practice resource considerations for those thinking of prescribing isotretinoin in their practice;

· Recommendations regarding useful dermatology resources for primary care.

Links:
· Irish College of GPs Dermatology in Practice Certificate - Isotretinoin Module

· Competencies and clinical guidelines for managing acne with isotretinoin in general practice: a scoping review - BJGP, Sep 2025

· Antibioticprescribing.ie – Acne Section

· Primary Care Dermatology Society Ireland

· Primary Care Surgical Association Ireland

The views and opinions expressed by hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the Irish College of GPs.

Listeners are encouraged to review current clinical guidelines, product labelling, and relevant policies before applying any information discussed in this podcast.

While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, medicine is a constantly evolving field, and no guarantee is made regarding the completeness, accuracy, or timeliness of the information presented.

Subscribe, like and review wherever you get your podcasts.
Webpage: https://www.irishcollegeofgps.ie/The-GP-Podcast
Email: podcast@icgp.ie