- M.D., University College Dublin, School of Medicine
- Fellowship in Nephrology, Royal Free Hospital, London
- MSc in Clinical Research, Trinity College Dublin
- Principal Investigator, National Study on Chronic Kidney Disease in Irish Adults
- Former Lecturer, Renal Physiology, University College Cork
- Clinical Lead, Dialysis Innovation Program, Health Service Executive (HSE)
- Irish Nephrology Society Best Research Presentation Award (2022)
- European Renal Association Young Investigator Grant (2020)
- HSE Clinical Excellence Recognition for Patient-Centered Care (2018)
Despite significant advancements in nephrology, disparities in kidney disease outcomes persist across socioeconomic and geographic lines. This lecture critically examines how social determinants of health (SDOH) shape the trajectory of patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), particularly in underserved communities. Dr. Liam O’Connor draws on a combination of clinical data, national health service audits, and patient-reported outcomes to explore how structural inequality manifests in delayed diagnoses, limited access to specialist care, and higher rates of end-stage renal disease.
The session will highlight case studies from rural Ireland, where fragmented referral systems and transportation barriers contribute to treatment gaps. Dr. O’Connor will also present findings from a pilot community-based intervention aimed at improving early CKD detection and patient education through local health workers. In parallel, the talk will explore international parallels, including urban poverty clusters and ethnic minority populations disproportionately affected by CKD.
A key focus is placed on actionable strategies: integrating social risk screening into nephrology clinics, establishing telehealth outreach programs, and advocating for policy reforms that ensure equitable funding for renal care services. Attendees will leave with a clearer understanding of how nephrology must evolve to serve not just kidneys, but the whole person—within the full context of their environment. This talk invites open discussion on the moral and clinical imperatives of making kidney care more just, inclusive, and sustainable in the decade ahead.
Despite significant advancements in nephrology, disparities in kidney disease outcomes persist across socioeconomic and geographic lines. This lecture critically examines how social determinants of health (SDOH) shape the trajectory of patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), particularly in underserved communities. Dr. Liam O’Connor draws on a combination of clinical data, national health service audits, and patient-reported outcomes to explore how structural inequality manifests in delayed diagnoses, limited access to specialist care, and higher rates of end-stage renal disease.
The session will highlight case studies from rural Ireland, where fragmented referral systems and transportation barriers contribute to treatment gaps. Dr. O’Connor will also present findings from a pilot community-based intervention aimed at improving early CKD detection and patient education through local health workers. In parallel, the talk will explore international parallels, including urban poverty clusters and ethnic minority populations disproportionately affected by CKD.
A key focus is placed on actionable strategies: integrating social risk screening into nephrology clinics, establishing telehealth outreach programs, and advocating for policy reforms that ensure equitable funding for renal care services. Attendees will leave with a clearer understanding of how nephrology must evolve to serve not just kidneys, but the whole person—within the full context of their environment. This talk invites open discussion on the moral and clinical imperatives of making kidney care more just, inclusive, and sustainable in the decade ahead.