Ireland HSE Reimbursement

Access Surgery Abroad with the EU Cross-Border Healthcare Directive

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.