Support Services for Doctors

The Medical Council regulates doctors in Ireland. In the role as regulator, the Medical Council promotes patient safety, maintains professional standards, and aims to build trust in the healthcare system.

The Medical Council understands that doctors, medical students, and members of the public who interact with doctors can sometimes encounter unique challenges. To support doctors, medical students, and individuals who are engaging with the Medical Council, they offer CAREhub - an independent, confidential, wellbeing support service provided by Lyra Health International. This service provides a safe space to speak with a qualified professional offering emotional and well-being support.

The Irish Medical Council has introduced CAREhub, an independent and confidential support service designed for medical students, doctors, and members of the public engaging with the Medical Council’s regulatory processes.

CAREhub offers:

• 24/7/365 access to trained counsellors for immediate, confidential wellbeing support.
• A supportive, non-judgmental service focused on compassion, assistance, respect, and empathy.
• Assurance of complete privacy – no personal or sensitive information is shared with the Medical Council, employers, or third parties.
• Independence from the Medical Council, with no access to regulatory or personal files.

The goal is to provide a safe space for those navigating challenging situations, ensuring they feel supported every step of the way.

Download the referral leaflet with more detailed information about CAREhub and how to access services. For further information, visit https://www.medicalcouncil.ie/public-information/carehub/

 

The services provided through the Practitioner Health Matters Programme are available to our members and the College would like to remind doctors of what support the service can offer.

Formally called the 'Sick Doctor Scheme', the 'Practitioner Health Matters Programme' (PHMP) is the new title of the scheme which provides confidential care and support for health professionals who may have substance misuse problem and other mental health issues. It has been designed to reflect international best practice in practitioner health.

The PHMP on a not-for-profit basis and is funded primarily by voluntary contributions and professional associations. The Programme has the support of the representative and training bodies for the medical, dental and pharmacy professions, as well as the three professional regulatory bodies for those professions

The service offers confidential help from experts who will provide appropriate interventions, including advice, support, mentoring and appropriate specialist referrals for doctors (including undergraduate medical students) who have a health problem which is interfering with their ability to practice safely.

Services may include access to a range of specialists who have a particular interest and experience in treating doctors. These specialties include psychiatry, psychology, occupational health, career mentoring, life coaching, addiction counselling and financial planning, drug and alcohol testing. Other services will be accessed depending on the individual's needs.

Practitioner Health Matters can be contacted confidentially through the website www.practitionerhealth.ie, by calling 01 297 0356 or email confidential@practitionerhealth.ie.