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Ireland’s healthcare system is widely recognised for delivering high-quality medical care to its population. The country operates a mixed healthcare system, combining both public and private healthcare services.
The healthcare system in Ireland is based on a mixed model, combining public and private services. It is overseen by the Health Service Executive (HSE), the organisation responsible for planning, delivering and managing healthcare services across the country.
Ireland’s healthcare system provides a comprehensive range of medical services, from primary care to specialist treatments. Primary care is generally delivered by General Practitioners (GPs), who act as the main entry point into the healthcare system. GPs provide routine medical care, treat common health conditions and refer patients to specialists when required.
Hospitals in Ireland are divided into public and private facilities. Public hospitals are managed by the HSE and provide essential healthcare services to the population. Private hospitals are operated by private organisations and usually offer a wider range of medical services, often with shorter waiting times, in exchange for additional fees.
To access healthcare services in Ireland, it is common to hold either a Medical Card or a GP Visit Card, which entitle eligible individuals to free or low-cost healthcare, depending on criteria such as income level and specific medical needs. Individuals who are not eligible for these cards may choose to take out private health insurance to access medical care.
Please note: Ireland’s healthcare system has faced challenges such as long waiting times for specialist care and emergency services. Ongoing reforms aim to improve accessibility, efficiency and the overall quality of healthcare in Ireland.
When choosing health insurance in Ireland, you can opt for either local health insurance or international health insurance.
Local health insurance in Ireland is designed specifically for the Irish healthcare system and may be suitable if you plan to stay in the country long term. It generally covers medical treatment, prescription medication, GP visits and specialist consultations within Ireland.
International health insurance, on the other hand, offers broader coverage, including access to medical care abroad and the ability to choose from a global network of healthcare providers. This option is particularly relevant for expatriates, internationally mobile professionals and families who travel frequently or may relocate again. It is essential to assess your personal needs carefully and compare available options before selecting a policy.
To further highlight the value of International Private Medical Insurance (IPMI), it’s worth emphasising its broader scope of cover compared with local health plans. IPMI typically includes routine maternity care, which is often excluded from local insurance as it is assumed to be covered by national health services. It also provides essential benefits such as repatriation and medical or non-medical evacuation, rarely included in local schemes. In addition, IPMI offers multilingual assistance, ensuring clear support wherever you are—something local plans seldom provide.
The cost of healthcare in Ireland varies depending on the type of treatment, your insurance coverage and your status (resident, citizen or expatriate).
Ireland operates a universal healthcare support scheme through the Medical Card, which provides free or low-cost healthcare to eligible individuals, including low-income households, elderly residents and people with specific medical conditions.
For those who are not eligible for a Medical Card, healthcare costs can be significant. As an indication:
A GP consultation typically costs between €50 and €70
A specialist consultation generally ranges from €100 to €150
Hospitalisation costs vary considerably depending on the type of treatment and length of stay
It is strongly recommended to check your health insurance coverage and confirm specific costs directly with healthcare providers.
Ireland has an extensive network of public hospitals managed by the HSE. These hospitals provide a full range of medical services, including emergency care, surgery, specialist consultations and long-term treatments.
Some of the main public hospitals in Ireland include Beaumont Hospital, St. James's Hospital, Cork University Hospital and University Hospital Galway.
Ireland also has a number of private hospitals offering comprehensive medical services to patients who choose private healthcare. These facilities often provide shorter waiting times and access to a wider range of medical and surgical services. Private hospitals operate on a self-pay or private health insurance basis.
General Practice (GP) clinics are medical practices run by General Practitioners. GPs provide primary healthcare services such as routine consultations, treatment of common illnesses, vaccinations, health advice and referrals to specialists when necessary.
GP clinics are available throughout the country, and it is common practice to register with a local GP to ensure ongoing medical follow-up.
The official HSE website provides detailed information on hospitals, GP clinics and healthcare services in Ireland.
This online medical directory lists GPs, specialists, hospitals and other healthcare professionals across Ireland.
It only takes a few steps to join and start benefitting from your international health insurance cover!
1. Find the cover that suits your situation from a range of options
2. Request a quote online and sign it electronically
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