RCSI is hosting the Irish Network of Medical Educators’ (INMED) inaugural Annual Scientific Meeting today and tomorrow.

The meeting is entitled 'Medical Education in Ireland: New Frontiers' and is open to all those involved in Medical Education. Representatives from all the major institutions involved in Medical Education in Ireland will be in attendance at the conference.

The Minister for State at the Department of Health Dr Jimmy Devins officially opened the conference this morning. Other highlights include a keynote address by Dame Lesley Southgate and over 90 research papers and posters on medical education presented in parallel sessions.

INMED’s objective is to enhance medical education on the island of Ireland by bringing together individuals and organisations with an interest in and responsibilities in medical and healthcare education in a National Medical Education Network.

Speaking this morning, Minister Jimmy Devins, Minister for State an the Department of Health and Children, said: “Irish Doctors have enjoyed a long-standing reputation for excellence and it is imperative that this reputation for quality is maintained and that the education and training system develops to meet the demands of the future in line with best international standards.”

Dr Frances Meagher, Department of Medicine at RCSI and Chair of the INMED Scientific Committee, said: “This is a historic and long overdue event for all involved in Medical Education in Ireland. We have been overwhelmed at the level of interest and enthusiasm in the meeting and anticipate that INMED will provide the springboard for future collaborative dialogue and research among all those involved in medical education, both nationally and internationally.”

Dr Eva Doherty, senior lecturer at the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences at RCSI, added: “The Irish medical education system has undergone a number of changes in the past few years including the introduction of the graduate entry programme. This meeting provides a forum for all those involved in medical education in Ireland to come together and share their views, concerns and expertise on issues relating to the delivery of medical education in Ireland.”

INMED is open to all individuals who contribute to and are active participants in education in the health professions at either undergraduate or postgraduate levels.