What would make an experienced Consultant Psychiatrist leave an established career and relocate to another country?

In this episode of Doctor Diaries: Adventures to Ireland, Dr Ignacio Lopez shares his journey from Spain to Ireland and reflects on his experience working as a Consultant Psychiatrist within the Irish healthcare system.

We discuss the differences between psychiatric practice in Ireland and Spain, the opportunities available to experienced consultants, the challenges of international relocation, and the professional development opportunities he has experienced since joining St James's Hospital.

This episode offers valuable insights for psychiatrists and doctors considering a move to Ireland and looking to understand both the professional and personal realities of relocation.

What financial steps should doctors take when relocating to Ireland?

In this episode of Doctor Diaries: Adventures to Ireland, we speak with Lumondt Kritzinger from Howzit Expats about the financial side of relocation that many people overlook.

From pensions and tax planning to wills and protecting your family financially, Lumondt shares practical advice for international healthcare professionals moving to Ireland.

We explore the most common financial mistakes expats make, what doctors should prioritise in their first few weeks, and why delaying important financial decisions can have long-term consequences.

If you're planning a move to Ireland, this episode will help you understand how to build strong financial foundations from the very beginning.

What happens after you attend a recruitment roadshow and decide to relocate your family to another country?

In this episode of Doctor Diaries: Adventures to Ireland, Dr Shanell Sheri Peeriyah shares her journey from South Africa to Ireland, discussing how she first learned about opportunities through MatchMedics, what attracted her to Ireland, and how she successfully transitioned into urgent care practice with VHI Healthcare.

We discuss family life, career opportunities for experienced doctors, adapting to Irish healthcare, and the moments that confirmed she had made the right decision.

This episode is packed with practical insights for international doctors considering a move to Ireland and wondering what life could look like on the other side.

This season of Doctor Diaries is sponsored by Future Forex, the all-in-one financial partner for South Africans making their move abroad. From completing your SARS tax emigration and exchange control clearance, to transferring your funds to and from South Africa at industry-leading rates, Future Forex provides a fully guided, end-to-end solution tailored to you. Visit www.futureforex.co.za

What is life really like after relocating from South Africa to Ireland as a GP / Family Medicine Physician?

In this episode of Doctor Diaries: Adventures to Ireland, Dr Annette shares her experience of joining Ireland's Non-EU Rural GP Training Programme and building a career in rural general practice.

We discuss what attracted her to the programme, how GP training in Ireland compares with her previous experience, the realities of working in a rural community, and how her family adapted to life in Ireland.

For international doctors considering a move overseas, Dr Annette offers practical advice, honest reflections and valuable insight into the opportunities available through Irish General Practice.

Finding accommodation is often one of the most stressful parts of relocating to Ireland.

In this episode of Doctor Diaries: Adventures to Ireland, we speak with Pat Drinan, Founder and CEO of HomeHak, about what international doctors need to know before they begin their move.

Pat shares practical advice on navigating Ireland's rental market, avoiding common mistakes, preparing the right documentation, and setting realistic expectations before arrival.

We also discuss how HomeHak was created to help tenants stand out in a competitive housing market by allowing them to build detailed Tenant CVs and connect more effectively with landlords and letting agents.

Whether you're planning your move now or considering Ireland in the future, this episode offers valuable guidance to help make your relocation journey smoother.

What does the journey from international medical graduate to Consultant look like in Ireland?

In this episode of Doctor Diaries: Adventures to Ireland, we speak with Dr Ngozi Oketah, a Nigerian-qualified, Irish-trained General Paediatric Consultant at Children's Health Ireland, Crumlin.

Ngozi shares her experience of adapting to a new healthcare system, overcoming challenges during specialist training, and building a successful career in Irish medicine. We discuss the realities of relocating to Ireland, the support international doctors need beyond hospital induction, and the importance of mentorship, advocacy and representation in healthcare.

As an advocate for junior doctors and international medical graduates, Ngozi also offers practical advice for doctors beginning their careers in Ireland and reflects on the lessons she's learned throughout her own journey.

This episode is an inspiring and honest conversation about resilience, opportunity and finding your place in a new healthcare system.

What do hospitals look for when recruiting international doctors?

In this episode of Doctor Diaries: Adventures to Ireland, Garry McCabe, Head of HR at Mater Private Hospital, shares an employer's perspective on international medical recruitment and what helps overseas doctors build successful careers in Ireland.

We discuss Mater Private's growth plans, workplace culture, relocation support, and the opportunities available for international Consultants and specialists. Gary also addresses common misconceptions about working in Ireland, the challenges doctors face when relocating, and why employer support plays such a critical role in long-term success.

Whether you're actively planning a move or simply exploring your options, this episode offers practical insights into what hospitals are looking for and how international doctors can prepare for a smooth transition.

What is it really like to start a new medical career and build a new life in Ireland?

In the first episode of the new season of Doctor Diaries: Adventures to Ireland, we meet Dr Kirsten Lee Roberts, a South African doctor working as an SHO in Paediatric Emergency Medicine at Children’s Health Ireland in Dublin.

Kirsten began working in Ireland in January 2026, giving her a fresh perspective on the experience of relocating as an international doctor. She shares how she has been navigating her new role, adapting to life in the Irish healthcare system, settling into Dublin and finding a new community.

We also explore the wider realities of life as a doctor, from the rewarding moments and unique experiences to the challenges that come with a career in medicine.

For South African and international doctors considering a move to Ireland, this episode offers an honest and relatable look at the early stages of relocation, working in Ireland and creating a life beyond the hospital.

Listen now and follow Doctor Diaries: Adventures to Ireland for more real stories from doctors who have made the move.

Considering a medical career in Ireland or overseas?
Discover opportunities and relocation support with MatchMedics: https://www.matchmedics.com