The Rotunda Hospital has appointed experienced consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist Dr Vicky O'Dwyer as clinical director.

Dr O'Dwyer has served in multiple senior positions at the Dublin 1 maternity hospital, and in her new role, she will lead the expansion of gynaecological services, including the opening of the Rotunda's new premises on nearby Dominick Street.

Prior to becoming clinical director, Dr O'Dwyer served as director of gynaecology at the Rotunda from 2020 to 2023, during which time she directed numerous initiatives, including the redevelopment of the gynaecology building, the establishment of the first menopause clinic and quality improvement measures in colposcopy services.

Commenting on her appointment, Dr O’Dwyer said: “It is a tremendous honour to take on the role of Clinical Director at the Rotunda Hospital.

"I look forward to working with my colleagues across all disciplines to further develop services that reflect the highest standards in women’s health and education, and to create meaningful improvements in clinical outcomes for our patients in the inner city.”

Prof Seán Daly, Master of the Rotunda Hospital, said Dr O Dwyer's appointment "marks a significant step forward for the Rotunda Hospital.

"Her leadership has already delivered measurable improvements in women’s health services, and her commitment to excellence, innovation and compassionate care reflects the very best of this institution.”

A passionate advocate for women’s health, Dr O’Dwyer was instrumental in co-authoring the national clinical guidelines in pregnancy termination and has led the Termination of Pregnancy Service at the Rotunda since 2019.

In 2020, Dr O’Dwyer and her team received a Healthcare Award in the Irish Healthcare Awards for Outpatient Initiative of the Year for her work in this area.

She holds a Diploma in Clinical Education from NUI Galway and has over seven years’ experience in postgraduate medical education with the Royal College of Physicians of Ireland (RCPI).

As part of her consultant role, she mentors trainee obstetricians, general practitioners, nurses and midwives.

Dr O’Dwyer’s qualifications include a Medical Doctorate, Master's in Healthcare Management from the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, and specialist fellowships in Maternal Medicine, and she is the author of 37 peer-reviewed publications.

Photo: Dr Vicky O'Dwyer. (Pic: Supplied)