While everyone speaks English, the Irish healthcare system (HSE) uses specific acronyms and institutional language. Knowing what these mean is essential to getting the right care, getting it for free, and not missing your appointment window.
🏥 The System & Facilities
| Irish Term | Translation / Meaning |
|---|---|
| HSE | Health Service Executive. The public health system in Ireland. |
| A&E | Accident & Emergency. The hospital emergency room (where you go for PEP outside hours). |
| GP | General Practitioner. Your local doctor. |
| GMHS | Gay Men's Health Service. The premier LGBTQ+ sexual health clinic in Dublin. |
| PPSN | Personal Public Service Number. Required to get free PrEP dispensed at a pharmacy. |
| Medical Card / DPS Card | Cards issued by the HSE that cover or cap the cost of prescription medications (like PrEP). |
| Swiftqueue | The online booking portal used by the HSE to release clinic appointments. |
🦠 Medical Terms
Use the correct clinical acronyms at triage desks (like A&E) so the nurses know exactly what to prioritize.
| Irish Term | Translation / Meaning |
|---|---|
| Full Screen | A comprehensive STI check (Bloods for HIV/Syphilis + Swabs/Urine for Chlamydia/Gonorrhea). |
| Swabs | Used to test the throat and rectum. If you are a bottom, ensure you explicitly ask for a rectal swab. |
| Window Period | The time between an exposure and when a test can accurately detect the infection. |
| Undetectable (U=U) | A person living with HIV whose viral load is fully suppressed, meaning they cannot transmit the virus. |
💊 Medication & Prevention
| Irish Term | Translation / Meaning |
|---|---|
| PEP | Post-Exposure Prophylaxis. Emergency HIV prevention (must be taken within 72 hours). |
| PrEP | Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis. Daily or On-Demand HIV prevention. |
| Chemsex / Slams | The scene terminology for using GHB, Crystal Meth, or Mephedrone during sex. |
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