Dr. Niamh O'Brien awarded Irish GP of the Year

Doctor Niamh O'Brien received the GP of the year Award at the GP Buddy Ceremony

The GPBuddy National GP Awards recognise those working at the front line of primary care who make a real difference for patients across Ireland. These awards shine a light on GPs and other healthcare professionals, who show dedication, commitment and innovation in community-based healthcare.

Last night, Dr. Niamh O’Brien of Galway Family Doctors was awarded GP of the Year 2025 at the GPBuddy Awards. This is one of the most prestigious honours in Irish general practice. The award is given to a GP who has shown outstanding leadership, drive and impact over the past 12 months. It recognises someone whose work has gone beyond routine care, and whose efforts have benefited patients and the profession.

Dr. O’Brien has earned this in part because of her consistent advocacy for patients, especially those facing barriers to care. She combines excellent clinical service with a strong commitment to social justice in health. Her leadership has helped to improve access, quality, or innovation in her practice and wider community.

Many of the GPBuddy award categories focus on results: changes in patient outcomes, improvements in service delivery, innovation in practice, contribution to training or teaching, or community engagement. The judging panel assesses nominees by their measurable effects—such as increased access, improved health metrics, or new programmes that serve underserved groups.

Winning GP of the Year means Dr. O’Brien stood out across all these dimensions. Last night’s award recognises not just her excellence in patient care but her ability to lead, inspire and set a high standard for peers across the country.