Postgraduate Diploma in Health Sciences (Primary Care)

This is an exciting time for professionals working in the rapidly changing healthcare policy context. The opportunities presented by the HSE Transformation process pose challenges to traditional ways of working, while advancing research brings new approaches to healthcare management. We aim to meet the evolving educational needs of health and social care professionals working at the forefront of this ever-changing environment.

This is an inter-disciplinary course delivered over eight months using a mix of e-learning and face to face teaching. E-learning is supported by comprehensive distance learning packs. Face to face teaching uses a collaborative learning model and requires attendance in Galway for two consecutive weekdays each month (four days in September and February).

Programme aims and objectives

1.  To allow primary care practitioners to learn with and from each other in a structured educational environment to develop the knowledge, skills and attitudes for effective multidisciplinary working in primary care.
2. To develop effective leaders, managers and members of primary health care teams.
3. To explore the role of primary care in the health service.
4. To increase knowledge and skills for evidence-based practice and information management within a changing health care environment.
5. To foster a critical approach to practice by a)developing an analytical approach to published work, b)learning about the work of others and c)examining own work using the technique of reflective practice writing.
6. To increase understanding of human behaviour in relation to health, illness and health care in order to improve effectiveness of interaction with patients and other health care professionals.
7. To develop knowledge and skills to plan, implement and evaluate new developments in health care delivery.