Are you experiencing delays on the HSE waiting list for medical treatment in Ireland? If your health condition deteriorates while awaiting treatment, you might qualify for reimbursement. This applies if you seek healthcare in the EU, EEA, or Switzerland. The Treatment Abroad Scheme provides an avenue for individuals faced with extended waiting times. It ensures you have access to necessary medical care if delays impact your health status. Learn about your eligibility for refunds and how seeking treatment abroad could alleviate the strain caused by prolonged waiting periods.

MedRefund – Your Solution for Escaping the HSE Waiting List
As an Irish and EU resident, you hold the entitlement to access medical treatment across the EU and reclaim expenditures on healthcare. MedRefund LTD specializes in assisting EU and EEA residents in navigating the essential processes for organizing and recovering expenses.
Embrace the opportunity of reduced healthcare expenses in Europe and expedite your access to necessary treatments by opting for medical care abroad. The HSE provides refunds based on the treatment type and the country where it was obtained.
Can I Access HSE Funding for Healthcare Abroad?
Absolutely. Whether you’re awaiting various treatments such as orthopaedic surgeries (like hip or knee procedures), gynaecological surgeries (for conditions such as endometriosis), or any other medical interventions, choosing to have these treatments abroad can help you bypass the HSE waiting list. The HSE offers a specific process that MedRefund can assist you with. Complete our pre-treatment form tailored for HSE procedures today.
Applying for an HSE Refund following Healthcare Abroad
Selecting the appropriate route is essential when applying for a refund. MedRefund offers comprehensive guidance on our website. Visit our “Jump the HSE Waiting List” page for detailed information and initiate your refund application now. For unplanned treatments conducted within a state system abroad, complete our emergency treatment form. If your treatment, whether planned or emergency, took place in a private clinic, fill out our private treatment abroad refund form to facilitate your reimbursement process.
FAQ
What is Refunded Healthcare Abroad?
Refunded Healthcare Abroad, supported by MedRefund, is an Irish cross-border healthcare service designed to help individuals avoid extensive waiting lists by gaining access to cost-free care in EU countries under the EU Cross-Border Healthcare Directive.
What services does Medrefund provide?
Our services include:
- Identifying the most suitable hospitals and skilled surgeons aligned with your specific needs.
- Assisting in gathering pre-travel essentials, such as blood tests, scans, and GP referral letters.
- Coordinating with your GP and diagnostic centre to compile pre-travel medical documents.
- Handling paperwork and ensuring your refund application is submitted to the HSE through MedRefund.
What is the EU Cross-Border Healthcare Directive?
The EU Cross-Border Healthcare Directive’s goal is to standardize healthcare accessibility across Europe. It permits EU citizens to seek treatment in another EU country, after which their home government provides a refund for the treatment cost.
What are the eligibility criteria for the Refunded Healthcare Abroad scheme?
This scheme is accessible to any individual entitled to treatment in an Irish hospital. You simply need a referral letter from your GP. No waiting list is required, and every citizen, regardless of health insurance or possessing a medical card, can benefit from this scheme.
Which procedures are covered under the Refunded Healthcare Abroad scheme scheme?
Under the EU Cross-Border Healthcare Directive, the HSE refunds the patient’s consultation, treatment, and rehabilitation costs when they receive treatment in another EU country, up to the amount it would cost the HSE to perform the same treatment in Ireland. Explore our website for a comprehensive list of covered procedures.
How long does it take to receive my refund?
Upon submitting the completed application and supporting documents, it may take up to 14 weeks to process your refund application through MedRefund. But it can take longer per individual case.
Do I need diagnostics before travelling?
The necessity for diagnostics varies based on the treatment required. We will arrange X-rays, MRI scans, ECGs, and blood tests as necessary or tell them what tests you need to do. Many of our clients do get their diagnostic tests, scans and assessments abroad.
Can I access aftercare in Ireland?
During your stay abroad, you’ll attend the hospital for dressing changes and follow-up consultations. Upon returning to Ireland, the HSE will continue your aftercare.
Click here to watch a brief HSE video explaining the process.