THE MEDICAL TEAM
For over 30 years, The Park Family Practice has been dedicated to providing exceptional healthcare to the residents of Ballyphehane, Cork, and the surrounding areas.
Our medical practice ensures that patients receive the highest standard of care, combining expert medical advice, comprehensive services, and compassionate support. Established in 1999 by Dr Paddy Ryan, Dr Joe McAuliffe joined in 2003, Dr Neil Thompson joined in 2021, and Dr Sarah Griffin became part of our team in 2025.
At The Park Family Practice, we offer a full range of GP services, ensuring accessible, high-quality healthcare for individuals and families in our community.
DR. JOE MCAULIFFE
Dr. Joe McAuliffe qualified in Medicine in UCC in 1997 and completed the Cork GP Training scheme in 2002. He worked for some time in New Zealand before joining The Park Family Practice in 2003. He has a Masters in Sports and Exercise Medicine from UCC as well as post-graduate diplomas in Child Health, Diabetes Mellitus and Cardiovascular Disease in Primary Care. He has a special interest in sports injuries and rehabilitation, as well as Diabetes Mellitus and cardiovascular health in general.
DR. NEIL THOMPSON
Dr Neil Thompson qualified in Medicine in Trinity College, Dublin in 2012. He worked in renal medicine and medical education, before completing the Dublin Mid-Leinster GP training scheme in 2021. His special interest is in preventative medicine and the management of chronic diseases.
Dr. Sarah Griffin
We are delighted to introduce Dr. Sarah Griffin, who joined our practice in 2025 after completing her GP training with the Cork ICGP training scheme. A Cork native, Dr. Griffin graduated with Honours in Medicine from University College Cork (UCC) in 2012 (MB, BCh, BAO). She brings a wealth of experience to General Practice, with eight years spent working in hospital medicine across Ireland.
Before focusing on General Practice, Dr. Griffin gained significant experience in hospital medicine. She completed her Basic Specialist Training and was awarded the MRCPI, and she undertook several years of specialist training in Haematology, which further deepened her clinical expertise.
Dr. Griffin is committed to providing comprehensive care, with a particular focus on Women's Health. She holds a Certificate in Contraception and Long-Acting Reversible Contraception (LARC) and has completed the rigorous Certificate in Menopause Management from the British Menopause Society. She also holds diplomas in Paediatrics and Healthcare Leadership.
Dr. Griffin is dedicated to providing patient-centred, compassionate care. She enjoys supporting patients through all stages of life, with a strong emphasis on preventative medicine and holistic wellbeing.
Nurse Peggy Pearson, Registered General Nurse
Peg trained as a nurse in St. Vincent’s Hospital, Dublin before working for many years in the ICU at Mercy Hospital. Having taken a few years off for her own family Peg joined the Practice in 2005. She is an excellent phlebotomist, baby and travel vaccinator, and a qualified smear taker. She works with the Doctors here providing care of all patient’s needs especially Diabetic patients. Most of all she is professional, caring and courteous with all patients.
Nurse Olwen James, Registered General Nurse
Olwen is a highly experienced Registered General Nurse with over 25 years in healthcare. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing Studies and a Diploma in Safety, Health and Welfare at Work from University College Cork (UCC). Olwen is also a registered smear taker for Cervical Check.
Her extensive background includes two decades of experience working in both surgical and medical units at the Mercy University Hospital. Additionally, she spent three years working for the Defence Forces at the Military Medical Facility in Collins Barracks.
Olwen has a keen professional interest in Women's Health, Chronic Disease Management, childhood vaccinations, and travel vaccinations. She is a proud member of the General Practice Nurses Educational Association.
Our administrative team, is the backbone of the surgery, ensuring the smooth and efficient running of all services. They are your first point of contact, managing appointments, handling patient registrations, processing prescriptions, and coordinating communication between patients, nurses, and doctors. The team is committed to providing a friendly, confidential, and professional experience, working diligently behind the scenes to help you access the care you need quickly and with ease. They are here to answer your queries and make your experience at the practice as straightforward as possible.