Dr. Sylvia McKenna
IMC No. 023640
MB BCh BAO, MICGP, HDipMed (Dermatology)
DME, DCP, DCH, DRCOG
Dr. Sylvia McKenna is a General Practitioner with advanced training and a special interest in medical dermatology, skin surgery, and aesthetic skin treatments. She provides comprehensive, assessment-led skin care within a primary care setting, with a strong emphasis on patient safety, education, and evidence-based practice.
Qualifications and Education
Dr. McKenna graduated in Medicine from Trinity College Dublin and completed her Specialist Training in General Practice with the North Eastern Regional GP Training Programme. She is a member of the Irish College of General Practitioners, and her registration and qualifications are listed on the Irish Medical Council Register.
Her specialist interest in skin health developed through completion of a Higher Diploma in Dermatology (UCD), followed by further training in skin surgery with the University of Hertfordshire, London. She has also completed accredited training in dermoscopy (skin microscopy) with Cardiff University and the Skin Cancer College of Australasia, supporting detailed and accurate assessment of skin lesions.
Clinical Experience
Dr. McKenna worked as a GP partner at Wheaton Hall Medical Practice for over 21 years and served as a GP Trainer for 17 years, mentoring and supporting future family doctors through the North Eastern GP Training Scheme. Alongside her community practice, she has spent regular time working within hospital dermatology clinics, ensuring her clinical knowledge and skills remain current and aligned with best practice standards.
She is a member of the Primary Care Dermatology Society of Ireland and the Primary Care Surgical Association, and an associate member of the British Association of Dermatologists and the Skin Cancer College of Australasia. She attends national and international conferences regularly to remain up to date with developments in dermatology and skin surgery.
Awards and Recognition
Dr. McKenna is a two-time recipient of the Ross Ardill Perpetual Trophy, awarded for excellence in the treatment of low-risk skin cancer in general practice and for her audit work on cryosurgery. She was awarded first place at the 2024 Health One Audit Meeting for her work on low-risk basal cell carcinoma management and was nominated for GP of the Year in 2018.
Teaching, Leadership, and Advocacy
A committed educator, Dr. McKenna has delivered teaching and mentorship to doctors for many years as a GP Trainer and has presented at national conferences for GPs and nurses through the Primary Care Surgical Association. She has also contributed as a speaker on the Dermatology in Practice Course at the Irish College of General Practitioners.
From 2013 to 2018, she served on the committee of the Primary Care Surgical Association of Ireland, helping to develop mentoring pathways for GPs training in skin surgery. She continues to advocate for equitable, community-based access to safe, cost-effective skin cancer care, including improved laboratory access for surgical samples in the North East.
She worked as CME (continuing medical education) leader within the ICGP Dundalk CME network for a number of years.
Scope of Practice
Dr. Sylvia is not a consultant dermatologist, but a General Practitioner with advanced postgraduate training and extensive experience in dermatology and skin surgery. She does not provide treatment for melanoma or high-risk skin cancers. Management of complex or high-risk cancers is appropriately undertaken in secondary care or hospital settings, in line with national guidelines. Any atypical or uncertain cases are referred promptly to a consultant specialist.
The majority of skin conditions seen in the community are not complex and can be safely and effectively managed within general practice by a GP with advanced training. This allows patients to access timely, high-quality skin care closer to home.
Approach to Care
Dr. McKenna’s approach is thorough, individualised, and patient-centred, with education and prevention at the heart of every consultation. Her combination of clinical expertise, accessibility, and commitment to ongoing professional development makes Dr. Sylvia - The Skin GP an ideal first point of contact for patients seeking trusted advice and care for skin concerns.
Outside the Clinic
Outside of work, Sylvia enjoys playing golf, keeping active, and spending time with family and friends.
Rachel Donaghy– Clinic Coordinator / Manager
Rachel is our Clinic Coordinator and Manager at Dr. Sylvia - The Skin GP, and plays an important role in ensuring every patient feels welcomed, supported, and looked after from the moment they arrive. With her warm, bubbly personality and calm, professional approach, Rachel helps put patients at ease and creates a friendly environment where you can feel comfortable and confident in your care.
Rachel has a strong background in healthcare administration, and she also brings valuable hands-on experience from her studies in Pre-Nursing and a Certificate of Higher Education in Dental Nursing, giving her a well-rounded understanding of both patient care and clinical support.
At Dr. Sylvia - The Skin GP, Rachel is dedicated to making sure every interaction is handled with professionalism, kindness, and exceptional attention to detail—helping ensure every patient receives the best of care.
