If you’re living in Ireland, you’re probably entitled to free public healthcare. This includes free maternity care and ambulance services.
However, many people prefer to have private health insurance in order to get prompt medical treatment. The public healthcare system often has long waiting lists.
Public Healthcare
If you are an Irish citizen, you are entitled to a number of public healthcare services that are free or subsidized by the government. These include GP and hospital care, dental and optical treatments, and a range of mental health services.
However, these are not always free of charge and you may be required to pay a subsidized rate depending on your income, age and disability status. Expats and those living in Ireland on a low income may also be able to obtain the ‘Medical Card’ which offers completely free access to a range of health services including GP visits, public hospital care and dental treatment.
Despite this, there are still a large number of citizens who prefer to seek private health insurance, in order to get better treatment. Those who choose to do this can find it beneficial, because they will bypass long waiting lists for treatment and can be sure that they are getting the highest quality of medical care.
Private Healthcare
Ireland has a free public healthcare system, however it’s under severe pressure. Waiting lists for specialised treatments in public hospitals can be long, and many citizens prefer to use private healthcare in order to avoid these delays.
Currently, all residents of Ireland are entitled to receive free health care at public hospitals and are also eligible for subsidised long-term medication. Those without private health insurance can still access these services but they are subject to lengthy waiting lists and may have to pay out of pocket for their treatment.
There are a number of statutory and voluntary private healthcare providers in Ireland. These include VHI (Voluntary Health Insurance), BUPA, and VIVAS. These organisations offer a range of policies which can be tailored to your needs and budget. The Health Insurance Authority website is a good place to find out more about the different types of cover available in Ireland. It also provides an overview of how prices are calculated.
International Healthcare
Ireland has an extensive public healthcare system that is heavily subsidised for almost everyone. However, this is not without its challenges.
For example, many EU citizens and non-EU expats may be faced with lengthy waiting lists for non-urgent care in Ireland. These can be frustrating and disruptive, especially if you have to cancel appointments due to travel plans or work commitments.
International health insurance in Ireland can be a helpful way to avoid these difficulties and reduce the stress of unexpected medical expenses. It can also give you more flexibility in the treatment facilities you choose and the doctors you can see.
At Expat Financial, we can help you find the right international health insurance plan for your needs in Ireland. We have a team of experts who will provide you with the guidance you need to ensure you make an informed choice.
Expatriates
If you’re an expat moving to Ireland, health insurance is a crucial issue. Fortunately, there are many options available for international travelers and digital nomads looking for an affordable plan that covers their expenses abroad.
Despite the high standard of Irish healthcare, it is still possible to find a policy that is not only good value, but also a great match for your personal situation. The best way to secure quality, low-cost coverage is to choose an irish health insurance company that specializes in international insurance.
Several companies offer policies to expatriates in Ireland, including Foyer Global Health, Geoblue and Aetna. They offer a range of plans that can be customized for your needs, as well as a broad array of benefits. Moreover, most policies are portable, which means that you can take it with you as you travel from country to country. These features are especially valuable for digital nomads and those who live and work abroad regularly.