ULEARN-GP Conference

The annual University of Limerick Education and Research Network for GPs (ULEARN-GP) Conference took place at UL on Nov 3^rd & 4^th 2023. This meeting gave all GPs who are engaged with the School of Medicine in facilitating practice placements or conducting research a chance to meet and discuss current topics of interest.

The theme for this years conference was ‘Mapping the Evolution of General Practice’ and it was run in conjunction with the Mid-West Specialist Training Scheme in General Practice and the Mid-west Intern Network. Professor Catherine Woods of UL spoke about “Exercise is Medicine” and the evidence base and guidelines that are being developed internationally. Professor Ray O’Connor then gave a talk on ‘Dopesick’; why a critical view of the literature will save your patient’s life.

 A team of GP Trainees from the Mid-West Specialist Training Scheme in General Practice presented their ongoing research on the implementation of the national HSE Chronic Disease Management programme across a sample of local practices. Dr Mike O’Callaghan, Clinical Lead of the Irish College of GPs Research Hub then spoke about the national data of that programme and the potential impact of the work.

Finally, a panel discussion looking at “The GP training continuum – working together” was hosted by Professor Aidan Culhane to look at the steps that could be taken to encourage medical students and trainees to consider a career in GP. The panellists were Dr Natasha Slattery (Associate Program Director Mid-West Intern Network), Dr Sarah Linnane (GP Trainee Mid-West Specialist Training Scheme in General Practice) and Dr Brian McEllistrem (Scheme Director Mid-West Specialist Training Scheme in General Practice).