St. Vincent’s University Hospital designated as a EULAR Centre of Excellence in Rheumatology

18th November 2025

St. Vincent’s University Hospital (SVUH) has been officially designated a EULAR Centre of Excellence in Rheumatology by the European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR), a prestigious recognition of the hospital’s sustained excellence in research, mentoring future clinical scientists and contributing to informing healthcare policy in Europe. St. Vincent’s University Hospital is the only hospital in Ireland to have this designation.

The European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR), awards this title only to centres that demonstrate sustained excellence in Rheumatology research. To achieve it, an institution must show that it contributes to advancing our understanding of rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases – through original research, training and international collaboration.

“It is a tremendous honour for our institution to be recognised as a EULAR Centre of Excellence in Rheumatology,” said Dr. Carl Orr, Consultant Rheumatologist, St. Vincent’s University Hospital. “This distinction represents years of dedication, collaboration and scientific inquiry at the very highest level. While all faculty and colleagues have contributed, it must be acknowledged that the work of the late Professor Douglas Veale and Professor Ursula Fearon and their teams, has been extraordinarily important to our receiving this award.”

The team in St. Vincent’s University Hospital were joined by renowned Professor Paul Emery, Leeds University, a former mentor of Professor Veale. Professor Emery is a past president of EULAR and delivered the keynote speech in honour of Professor Veale at Medical Grand Rounds earlier in the morning.

As Professor Emery unveiled the plaque he paid tribute to the work of Professor Douglas Veale.

The EULAR Centre of Excellence designation marks St. Vincent’s University Hospital as part of a network of internationally recognised centres leading the way in rheumatology. It stands as a mark of trust and credibility for patients, affirming that their care is guided by the latest evidence and delivered by clinicians who are actively shaping that evidence.

It is also a beacon for collaboration, connecting us with a network of leading centres across Europe and beyond, opening doors for shared studies, fellowships and innovation that transcends borders.

Integral to the award is an investment in the next generation, because being a EULAR Centre of Excellence means mentoring young clinicians and scientists, nurturing curiosity and ensuring that progress continues.

Pauline McGrath, CEO of St. Vincent’s University Hospital, said: “This recognition reflects the collective effort of an entire community – consultants, trainees, nurses, scientists, therapists, administrators and most importantly, our patients who partner with us in research and care. It tells us that our work here matters both locally and internationally; and re-affirms that our institution is a place where discovery, compassion and education meet.”

The Rheumatology Department at St. Vincent’s University Hospital continues to be at the forefront of research, education and clinical excellence, building on a long tradition of innovation and leadership in Irish and European medicine.

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