Traveller Health Practice Points 2026 - Part 1

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Participants Breda O’Donoghue – Director for Advocacy, Traveller Visibility Group, Cork Dr Eleanor Donnelly – GP Registrar, Western GP Training Scheme Dr Una Kennedy, GP Advisor to National Cancer Control Programme Dr John Maher - Host Summary In the first episode of this two-part series, Dr John Maher is joined by Breda O’Donoghue, Dr Eleanor Donnelly and Dr Una Kennedy Co-Authors of the Irish College of GPs’ "Traveller Health Practice Points"document, published in March 2026.

In today's episode, we discuss topics including: Healthcare challenges faced by the Traveller Community and th impacts of social determinants of health; Some of the barriers and enablers to engaging with healthcare, and Internalised shame and the importance of trauma-informed care.

In part two, which follows next week, we will move on to: Simple measures that GPs can take to help break down barriers to equitable healthcare access; Specific health needs of the Traveller population, including genetic and inherited conditions, and Health promotion including cancer risk factor attenuation and screening, immunisation programme participation, and healthy lifestyle advice. Links See the Practice Points document for a more comprehensive suite of links and resources "Traveller Health Practice Points" - Irish College of GPs, March 2026 National Adult Literacy Agency – HCP Section Pavee Point Traveller and Roma Centre HSE Traveller Pregnancy Resource HSE Introduction to Traveller Training National Traveller Mental Health Service Traveller Counselling Service Mind Your Nuck – Young Traveller Mental Health 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.