For treatment that is available here but has a long wait, the Cross-Border Directive is the other route: you pay first and claim back.
Quick facts
- For
- Treatment not available here, or not in time
- Where
- EU, EEA, UK, Switzerland
- Referral
- Public hospital consultant only
- Approval
- Before you travel
- Decision
- Usually 15 to 20 working days
- Travel
- Some fares may be covered
Who qualifies
You must be ordinarily resident in Ireland and need treatment that is "Not available in Ireland or Not available within the time normally necessary to get it in Ireland, taking into account your current health and the likely course of your condition or disease".
"You cannot refer yourself for TAS. Only a public hospital consultant based in Ireland can refer you for treatment abroad. A GP cannot refer you for this scheme."
How to apply
You and your consultant fill in form E112 (S2) and send it to the HSE TAS office in Kilkenny with the referral letter. "You will get a decision on your application by letter, usually within 15 to 20 working days."
"Your application must be approved by the HSE before you travel or start treatment abroad."
What's covered
The HSE pays some or all of the approved treatment. "You may be able to get the Treatment Abroad Scheme to pay for some of the fares for air or sea travel for you and a travelling companion." Extra treatment that wasn't pre-approved isn't covered.
"If you don't bring your approved E112/S2 form to your appointment abroad, you might have to pay for your hospital visit."
Private patients
A private consultant can't refer you. Ask your insurer first. "If your private health insurance provider declines your application and you have been refused on appeal, you can then apply to the Treatment Abroad Scheme."
Common questions
What is the Treatment Abroad Scheme?
A HSE scheme that pays for some or all of the cost of treatment in the EU, EEA, UK or Switzerland when it isn't available in Ireland, or not in time.
Can my GP refer me for the Treatment Abroad Scheme?
No. Only a public hospital consultant based in Ireland can refer you.
Does the Treatment Abroad Scheme cover flights?
It may pay some air or sea fares for you and a travelling companion.
How long does a Treatment Abroad Scheme decision take?
Usually 15 to 20 working days.