Medical Trust Erodes Amid Rising Misinformation in Ireland

The medical community in Ireland faces significant challenges as concerns about misinformation and public trust come to the forefront. During a recent ceremony at Trinity College Dublin, Professor Colin Doherty, head of the School of Medicine, addressed over 500 third-year medical students about the urgent need to combat false narratives surrounding healthcare.

At the traditional Stethoscope Ceremony held on September 15, 2025, Professor Doherty highlighted how conspiracy theories are undermining the trust that doctors have traditionally enjoyed. He stated that the erosion of this trust poses a critical threat to both patients and healthcare professionals. “The slow degradation of the inherited trust that doctors have long been conferred with is the greatest challenge facing today’s medical practitioners,” he remarked.

Prof Doherty pointed to rampant misinformation, particularly in the United States, as a significant factor in this crisis. He referenced false claims about vaccines, including allegations that they contain microchips or cause autism. He warned, “Systematic disinformation in public health is the canary in the coal mine. This is what fascism looks like in our era.”

In his address, the consultant neurologist at St James’s Hospital urged the future doctors to recognize their roles as frontline defenders against misinformation. “You are the resistance. At stake is the trust that is conferred upon you. Without it, life as a doctor is impossible,” he said.

Prof Doherty acknowledged the personal challenges that come with medical training, including long hours and mental health struggles. He encouraged students to seek resilience and compassion, emphasizing that doctors often encounter moments of profound grief in their careers. “The simple act of reaching out to families is one of the most profound acts of care they can offer,” he concluded.

Addressing Gambling Addiction in Ireland

In a related event, families and addiction specialists will gather in Dublin on September 18, 2025, to address the pervasive issue of gambling addiction. Hosted by Gambling Care, the gathering will take place from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM at the Georgian Suite of Buswells Hotel. The panel discussion will feature service leaders, policymakers, and individuals with firsthand experience of gambling addiction, aiming to raise awareness and promote accessible support services.

Gambling Care, a charitable organization that assists thousands across Ireland annually, will also release its 2024 Annual Report during this event. The report will outline the various supports it provides to individuals and families affected by problem gambling.

World Heart Day Celebrations

As part of the upcoming World Heart Day celebrations on September 29, 2025, the CÚRAM Research Ireland Centre for Medical Devices, in collaboration with Croí, the Heart and Stroke Charity, will host a screening of the documentary film titled Counter Attack. The event will take place at Croí House in Newcastle, Galway, focusing on cardiovascular disease from multiple perspectives, including patients, researchers, and paramedics.

Directed by Tiernan Williams, the film features the story of musician Frankie Lane, who experienced a heart attack followed by a cardiac arrest. It also showcases the work of Dr. Niamh Hynes, a vascular surgeon at the University of Galway, whose research focuses on predicting aortic ruptures using artificial intelligence and machine learning.

Following the screening, there will be a panel discussion featuring contributors from the film, along with an audience Q&A session. This initiative aims to enhance public understanding of cardiovascular health and promote proactive health measures.

Together, these events highlight the ongoing challenges and responses within the Irish medical community, showcasing both the importance of trust in healthcare and the urgent need for effective communication and support systems to address public health issues.