The GP Podcast

Irish College of GPs

Medical education podcast for General Practitioners, from the Irish College of GPs. Email podcast@icgp.ie with feedback and suggestions for future episodes. We read everything we receive!

  1. 3d ago

    HSE Prevention Programmes (CDM, PP, OCF) - Tips for GPs

    🎓💻 Check out the range of On-Demand Courses now available from the Irish College of GPs.  Available exclusively to members, these courses can be completed at a time that suits you. All courses are accredited for Continuing Professional Development (CPD) credits and GMS Study leave. Details of courses and modules are available here. Participants Dr David McConaghy, Prevention Lead, Irish College of GPsDr Eamonn O’Shea, Cardiovascular Lead, Irish College of GPsDr John Maher, GP - Host  Summary The HSE Structured Chronic Disease Management Programme in General Practice was launched in January 2020 has been a major success to date, as highlighted by the recently published HSE Third Report of the Structured CDM Treatment Programme, with data comparing favourably to our UK and European peers.   David and Eamonn review some of the highlights from the recent report, including significant reductions in A&E attendance, hospital admissions, and out-of-hours co-op attendance.    Turning to clinical practice, they provide guidance around how to get started with the Opportunistic Case Finding and Annual Prevention Programmes for larger and smaller practices, and share tips on how to improve efficiencies in identifying and retaining patients, and streamlining review of those participating in the three programmes.   David and Eamonn also highlight the importance of early diagnosis in general practice, and the value of structured reviews in increasing uptake of preventive measures such as vaccinations.   Links Structured Chronic Disease Management Programme in General Practice – HSE, 2025Irish College of GPs: Chronic Disease Management Clinical HubDisclaimerThe 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.

    HSE Prevention Programmes (CDM, PP, OCF) - Tips for GPs
  2. Oct 7

    Wednesday Webinar Preview: 07 October 2026

    🎓💻 Check out the range of On-Demand Courses now available from the Irish College of GPs.  Available exclusively to members, these courses can be completed at a time that suits you. All courses are accredited for Continuing Professional Development (CPD) credits and GMS Study leave. Details of courses and modules are available here. Participants  Dr Suzanne Kelly, Deputy Medical Director, Irish College of GPsDr John Maher - Host SummaryThis episode previews tonight's Wednesday Webinar (07 October 2026), which will be introduced by Dr Suzanne Kelly, Deputy Medical Director, Irish College of GPs. 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. As well as our usual webinar preview, Suzanne also provides an overview of upcoming educational opportunities by College, including: modular courses;on‑demand learning;our Autumn Conference (morning of Saturday 10 October online), andsome of the General Practice Updates (GPUs) scheduled for publication in the coming months.Wednesday Webinar Topics and Speakers: Introduction - Dr Suzanne Kelly, Deputy Medical Director, Irish College of GPs"Depression, SSRIs and Drug Interactions" - Dr Brian Osborne, Assistant Medical Director, Mental Health, Irish College of GPs"GP VTE Case Studies - What to do Next?" - Dr Denis O'Keeffe, Consultant Haematologist and Clinical Lead for the National Clinical Programme in VTE"Osteoarthritis: From Clinical Picture to Practical Management" -  Dr Billy Twomey, GP, DublinFluad Vaccine Update - Dr Paddy Kelly, GP Clinical Lead for Immunisations, Irish College of GPs and HSELinks Irish College of GPs - Podcast PageWednesday Webinar Page (Including Links to Recordings)Education Links Professional Competence SchemeCollege "Full Courses" PageCollege "Modular Courses" PageCollege "Educational Programmes" PageCollege E-Learning ModulesIrish College of GPs – General Practice Updates (GPUs)Specific Courses Mentioned During the Show:Diploma in Musculoskeletal Injury ManagementMusculoskeletal Management & ImagingCertificate in Addiction Management in Primary CareDermatology in Practice Certificate Community Gynaecology Certificate GPUs Mentioned During the Show: Managing Depression in Primary Care QRGEating Disorders GPUEarly Medical Abortion: Top Ten Tips for Non-Providing General Practitioners QRGHeart Failure GPUPaediatric Sepsis GPU Other Resources Mentioned During the Show Autumn Conference 2026 - ProgrammeAutumn Conference 2026 - RegistrationMental Health Clinical HubSexual & Reproductive Health Clinical HubDisclaimerThe 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.

    Wednesday Webinar Preview: 07 October 2026
  3. Sep 30

    Vaccine Hesitancy

    🎓💻 Check out the range of On-Demand Courses now available from the Irish College of GPs.  Available exclusively to members, these courses can be completed at a time that suits you. All courses are accredited for Continuing Professional Development (CPD) credits and GMS Study leave. Details of courses and modules are available here. Participants Dr Patrick Kelly, GP Clinical Lead for Immunisations, Irish College of GPs and HSEDr John Maher - HostSummary In today’s show, Dr John Maher is joined by Dr Patrick Kelly, HSE/Irish College of GPs Lead for Immunisations to discuss vaccine hesitancy, including the history of the issue, drivers of hesitancy, and practical measures that practices can take to reduce hesitancy and increase vaccination levels in their communities.   Topics covered include: Tackling ambivalence, misinformation and disinformation;Practical steps to overcome vaccine hesitancy;Practice improvement opportunities, andAdditional resources available from College and the HSE.Links Irish College of GPs Clinical Hub: ImmunisationsImmunisation.ie (HSE)Department of HealthNational Immunisation Advisory Committee (NIAC)Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC)DisclaimerThe 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.

    Vaccine Hesitancy
  4. Sep 23

    Paediatric Sepsis: General Practice Update 2025 - Part 2

    📣📣📣 The the on-demand module "Adult Sepsis in GP" is now available on the College e-learning platform.  Course aims include: increasing sepsis awareness in primary care settings;assisting in the detection, assessment and early management of suspected sepsis;and developing understanding of post sepsis syndrome awareness among GPs.  The self-paced intereactive online module is free for members, PCS non-members and students, and takes approximately 60-90 mins to complete,    Upon successful completion, participants can avail of 2 CPD credits and 0.5 GMS study leave by accessing the CPDR code. Link to course information, via Irish College of GPs education platform:Adult Sepsis in GP Participants Dr Andrea Fitzgerald, GP Clinical Lead for Paediatric Sepsis, Irish College of GPs  Dr John Maher - HostSummary In the second episode of this two-part series, Dr John Maher is joined once more by Dr Andrea Fitzgerald, Lead Author of the Irish College of GPs’ "Paediatric Sepsis: General Practice Update" published in November 2025.   Today we discuss topics including: Initial management of suspected sepsis in primary care;Next steps in management when sepsis is not suspected;Audit and practice opportunities for clinicians, andSepsis prevention, including public awareness campaigns and additional resources for GPs.  Links Please note there are numerous additional links to resources included throughout the Paediatric Sepsis GPU – please refer to the GPU for a more comprehensive suite of resources. Irish College of GPs: Acute Care GPUsPaediatric Sepsis: Quick Reference Guide (Irish College of GPs, November 2025)HSE Sepsis Clinical Resources PageHSE antibioticprescribing.ieHSE Primary Childhood Immunisation Programme Resources for Parents, Guardians and Other Caregivers: HSE Sepsis Patient Information leafletsNHS / RCPCH Healthier Together 0–18 safety netting and parent information sheetsDisclaimerThe 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.

    Paediatric Sepsis: General Practice Update 2025 - Part 2
  5. Sep 15

    Paediatric Sepsis: General Practice Update 2025 - Part 1

    📣📣📣 The the on-demand module "Adult Sepsis in GP" is now available on the College e-learning platform.  Course aims include: increasing sepsis awareness in primary care settings;assisting in the detection, assessment and early management of suspected sepsis;and developing understanding of post sepsis syndrome awareness among GPs.  The self-paced intereactive online module is free for members, PCS non-members and students, and takes approximately 60-90 mins to complete,    Upon successful completion, participants can avail of 2 CPD credits and 0.5 GMS study leave by accessing the CPDR code. Link to course information, via Irish College of GPs education platform:Adult Sepsis in GP Participants Dr Andrea Fitzgerald, GP Clinical Lead for Paediatric Sepsis, Irish College of GPs  Dr John Maher - Host  Summary In the first episode of this two-part series, Dr John Maher is joined by Dr Andrea Fitzgerald, Lead Author of the Irish College of GPs’ "Paediatric Sepsis: General Practice Update" published in November 2025.   In line with other episodes featuring College GPUs, our conversation focuses on the usability of the GPU for GPs in day to day practice.  The front page of the guide has a “Jump To” box, featuring quick links to sections that GPs might need during a consultation.   In today's episode, we discuss: the potential impact of paediatric sepsis for doctors, patients and caregivers alike;a suggested approach to observation, history taking and examination;and the importance safetynetting  In part two, which follows next week, we will move on to: Initial management of suspected sepsis in primary care;Next steps in management when sepsis is not suspected;Audit and practice opportunities for clinicians, andSepsis prevention, including public awareness campaigns and additional resources for GPs.  Links Please note there are numerous additional links to resources included throughout the Paediatric Sepsis GPU – please refer to the GPU for a more comprehensive suite of resources. Irish College of GPs: Acute Care GPUsPaediatric Sepsis: Quick Reference Guide (Irish College of GPs, November 2025)HSE Sepsis Clinical Resources PageHSE antibioticprescribing.ieHSE Primary Childhood Immunisation Programme Resources for Parents, Guardians and Other Caregivers: HSE Sepsis Patient Information leafletsNHS / RCPCH Healthier Together 0–18 safety netting and parent information sheetsDisclaimerThe 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.

    Paediatric Sepsis: General Practice Update 2025 - Part 1
  6. Sep 9

    Heart Failure Prevention and Management

    📣📣📣 The College is pleased to announce the forthcoming publication of Heart Failure General Practice Update 2026, which will be available to download by members in the coming weeks, via this page of the College website. 📣📣📣 Participants • Dr Eamonn O’Shea, Cardiovascular Lead, Irish College of GPs   • Dr John Maher - Host   Summary Dr John Maher is joined by Dr Eamonn O'Shea, who provides listeners with an update in heart failure management in primary care in Ireland.  Their conversation is based on a Distance Learning module titled “Heart Failure Prevention in Primary Care,” written by Eamonn and published in the June 2025 edition of Forum magazine.   Topics covered today include: Changes in Heart Failure Classification, and their relevance to CDM;The nuances of NT-proBNP interpretation and further management;Reduced vs Preserved Ejection Fraction HF;Initial Pharmacotherapy pending Echo (SGLT2 Inhibitor andLoop Diuretic);Reduced Ejection Fraction - The Four Pillars of HF Management;Non-Pharmacological Interventions;The importance of vaccination;End of Life Care. Links Distance Learning: Heart Failure Prevention in General Practice – Forum Magazine, June 2025Universal Definition and Classification of Heart FailureClasses and Stages of Heart Failure – American Heart AssociationChronic heart failure in adults: diagnosis and managementDiabetes Sick Day Rules including SADMAN medications – diabetes.co.ukStructured Chronic Disease Management Treatment Programme in General Practice – 3rd Report (HSE 2025)Irish College of GPs WebsiteIrish College of GPs – General Practice Updates (GPUs)DisclaimerThe 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.

    Heart Failure Prevention and Management
  7. Sep 2

    Wednesday Webinar Preview: 02 September 2026

    🎓💻 Check out the range of On-Demand Courses now available from the Irish College of GPs.  Available exclusively to members, these courses can be completed at a time that suits you. All courses are accredited for Continuing Professional Development (CPD) credits and GMS Study leave. Details of courses and modules are available here. Participants  Dr Suzanne Kelly, Deputy Medical Director, Irish College of GPsDr John Maher - Host SummaryThis episode previews tonight's Wednesday Webinar (02 September 2026), which will be introduced by Dr Diarmuid Quinlan, Medical Director, Irish College of GPs. 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. As well as our usual webinar preview, Suzanne also provides an overview of upcoming educational opportunities by College, including: modular courses;on‑demand learning;our Autumn Conference (morning of Saturday 10 October online), andsome of the General Practice Updates (GPUs) scheduled for publication in the coming months.Wednesday Webinar Topics and Speakers: Introduction - Dr Diarmuid Quinlan, Medical Director, Irish College of GPsThe Tiger Who Came to Tea – Paediatric Sepsis in General Practice - Dr Andrea Fitzgerald, Paediatric Sepsis Clinical LeadSeasonal Update on COVID, Influenza and RSV – Dr Patrick Kelly, GP Clinical Lead - ImmunisationsA Simple Solution to the Common Cold (Intranasal Saline) - Dr Scott Walkin, Clinical Lead Antimicrobial Resistance and Infection Control Links Irish College of GPs - Podcast PageWednesday Webinar Page (Including Links to Recordings)Education Links Professional Competence SchemeCollege "Full Courses" PageCollege "Modular Courses" PageCollege "Educational Programmes" PageCollege E-Learning ModulesIrish College of GPs – General Practice Updates (GPUs)Other Resources Mentioned During the Show Autumn Conference 2026"Adult Sepsis in GP" On‑Demand Module (Dr Ellen Hayes)Heart Failure Prevention in General Practice - Forum Distance Learning June 2025National Immunisation Office (NIO)DisclaimerThe 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.

    Wednesday Webinar Preview: 02 September 2026
  8. Aug 19

    Codeine Misuse and Dependence in Primary Care (Summer Repeat)

    Link to course information, via Irish College of GPs website:Certificate in Addiction Management in Primary Care 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: Irish College of GPs WebsiteCollege Addiction Management Programme OverviewFoundation Course in Addiction Management (Level 1)Certificate Course in Addiction Management (Level 2)  Other Relevant Links: OST Protocol – How to Become a PrescriberHSE OST Guidelines 2017Drug misuse and dependence: UK guidelines on clinical managementHRB Bulletin: 2024 Drug Treatment DemandHPRA review of over the counter medications containing codeineHealth 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 alDisclaimerThe 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.

    Codeine Misuse and Dependence in Primary Care (Summer Repeat)

About

Medical education podcast for General Practitioners, from the Irish College of GPs. Email podcast@icgp.ie with feedback and suggestions for future episodes. We read everything we receive!

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