Ireland HSE Reimbursement

Skip Irish Waiting Lists - Irish patients can access healthcare abroad and claim reimbursement from the HSE

Irish residents facing long waiting times for surgery can now access treatment in accredited EU hospitals and claim HSE reimbursement for eligible costs.

Step 1: Get a Referral from Your GP or Consultant

  • Request a referral letter including: your details, current health status, required treatment, and the GP/consultant’s signature.

  • Already referred to a public hospital in Ireland? You can use the same referral abroad.

Step 2: Arrange Your Consultation Abroad

  • Schedule an in-person consultation with a specialist at an accredited EU hospital.

  • This consultation must be face-to-face before treatment can proceed.

Step 3: Undergo Treatment

  • Receive your planned procedure at the accredited hospital.

  • Hospitals are carefully selected for quality, safety, and experienced surgeons.

Step 4: Pay and Claim HSE Reimbursement

  • Pay for the treatment upfront.

  • Submit a claim to the HSE using the CBD Pro-forma Invoice.

  • The HSE reimburses consultation, treatment, and rehabilitation costs up to the amount it would cost in Ireland.

  • Travel, accommodation, and medication costs are not reimbursed.

Who Qualifies?

  • Ordinarily resident in Ireland

  • Entitled to public healthcare in Ireland

  • Referred by a GP or consultant

  • Can provide proof of being on a waiting list in Ireland

Healthcare Available

  • Hospital Services: Hip & knee replacement, cataracts, hernia, gallbladder surgery, scans, and more

  • Outpatient Care: Dental, ophthalmic, orthodontic, and other services

Optional Prior Authorisation

  • Not required to claim reimbursement

  • If requested, submit application form, referral letter, and proof of in-person consultation

  • Decisions typically take 15–20 working days

We Can Help

Our Cross Border Department guides you through every step:

  • Obtaining referrals

  • Scheduling consultations and surgery

  • Completing your HSE reimbursement claim

Contact Us Today:

Take control of your healthcare and access healthcare abroad without long delays in Ireland.