EU cross-border directive
Understand how the directive works and what it means for Irish patients.
EU cross-border directive
Understand how the directive works
& what it means for Irish patients.
"EU citizens have the right to seek planned healthcare in another EU country, under the Cross-Border Healthcare Directive, and to be reimbursed for the costs by their
home country's healthcare system."
Your EU right to faster treatment.
Stella Kyriakides | Health Commissioner
"EU citizens have the right to seek planned healthcare in another EU country, under the Cross-Border Healthcare Directive, and to be reimbursed for the costs by their
home country's healthcare system."
Your EU right to faster treatment.
Stella Kyriakides | Health Commissioner
Healthcare without borders.
The EU Cross-Border Healthcare Directive (Directive 2011/24/EU) was created to ensure that all EU citizens have the right to access safe and high-quality medical care across EU countries — not just in their home nation.
It exists to protect patients from long waitlists, lack of local treatment options, or delays in diagnosis — especially when equivalent care is available elsewhere in Europe.
Under this law, you're entitled to treatment abroad and reimbursement up to what the HSE would cover in Ireland.
While the directive may sound complex, it's grounded in one idea: that every EU citizen should be free to access timely, safe, and reimbursable care.
What the EU Commission promises.
Find out which procedures we can support through the EU Directive.
Patient Mobility
You have the right to receive medical treatment in any EU country, not just your home one. Whether it’s surgery, diagnostics, or specialist care — you’re free to choose where to be treated.
Quality & Safety
All cross-border care must meet EU safety standards and be provided by licensed professionals. We only work with clinics and hospitals that meet these high expectations.
Continuity of Care
You’re entitled to bring home your full medical records, reports, and scans. This ensures your GP or specialist in Ireland can continue your treatment smoothly.
Access to Information
The directive guarantees that patients can access clear, transparent details about available care across the EU. We provide guidance and explain every step so you know exactly what to expect.
Shared Medical Data
You have the right to receive medical treatment in any EU country, not just your home one. Whether it’s surgery, diagnostics, or specialist care — you’re free to choose where to be treated.
Treatment Approval
All cross-border care must meet EU safety standards and be provided by licensed professionals. We only work with clinics and hospitals that meet these high expectations.
Specialist Access
You’re entitled to bring home your full medical records, reports, and scans. This ensures your GP or specialist in Ireland can continue your treatment smoothly.
Reimbursement
The directive guarantees that patients can access clear, transparent details about available care across the EU.
We provide guidance and explain every step so you know exactly what to expect.
Tried. Trusted. Proven.
With the EU Cross-Border Directive, thousands have fast-tracked their surgery in EU hospitals without compromising on quality.
28
Participating countries across Europe.
83%
Approval rate for cross-border procedures.
€45M
Reimbursed to 13,000+ patients in Ireland.
Tried. Trusted. Proven.
Thousands have already fast-tracked their surgery in EU hospitals without compromising on quality.
28
Participating countries across Europe.
83%
Approval rate for cross-border procedures.
€45M
Reimbursed to 13,000+ patients in Ireland.
What this means for Irish patients.
If you qualify for public healthcare in Ireland, you also have the right to choose private care abroad — with the full cost covered by the HSE.
That means no more sitting on a waiting list hoping for a call. No more delays while your condition worsens. Instead, you get access to fast, private treatment in Europe — without paying out of pocket, and without the stress of doing it alone.
At Go Surgery, we guide you through every step, so you can focus on getting better — not battling the system.
Essential eligibility criteria.
Whether you're facing delays for surgery or simply want.
Irish residents only.
You must live in Ireland (1 year min) and be entitled to public healthcare.
Ireland-based income required.
You need to earn or receive a pension from within the Republic of Ireland.
HSE covered treatments.
Only procedures that are publicly available in Ireland are covered.
GP referral.
A referral letter from your GP is required before treatment.
Prior notification.
Some treatments require prior authorisation before travelling
EU-based clinics.
Your treatment must take place in an approved and licensed EU clinic.
Your Irish partner abroad.
From clinic coordination to document handling, we guide you through every step — ensuring your surgery abroad is safe, simple, and in most cases, 100% reimbursable by the HSE.
We’re not just about paperwork. We’re about peace of mind. Everything we do is designed to remove stress, add clarity, and make your recovery journey feel supported — from start to finish.
"Everyone talks about cutting waitlists. We actually do it — with professionalism, transparency, and full support every step of the way."
Robbie Rehenan, Co-Founder
Your partner abroad.
"Everyone talks about cutting waitlists. We actually do it — with dignity, transparency, and full support every step of the way."
From clinic coordination to document handling, we guide you through every step — ensuring your surgery abroad is safe, simple, and in most cases, 100% reimbursable by the HSE.
We’re not just about paperwork. We’re about peace of mind. Everything we do is designed to remove stress, add clarity, and make your recovery journey feel supported — from start to finish.
Robbie Rehenan, Co-Founder
Unlike generic facilitators, we’re founded by Irish professionals, work directly with award-winning Spanish clinics, and only take on cases we know we can deliver on.
Unlike generic facilitators, we’re founded by Irish professionals, work directly with award-winning Spanish clinics, and only take on cases.
What our patients are saying.
Patient feedback isn't just appreciated, it drives everything we do.
Costs & Reimbursement.
Through the EU Cross-Border Directive, your surgery abroad is fully reimbursed by the HSE — up to the cost of the same procedure in Ireland. It’s a safe and legal way to skip the queue without paying for the procedure itself.
Some extras, like travel or medication, aren’t included in the reimbursement. The hospital fee is paid upfront and then refunded by the HSE after your treatment.
We understand the upfront payment can feel like a barrier — that’s why we connect you with trusted finance partners, and help with loan applications if needed.
And don't worry, our service is completely free to you — we’re funded through the scheme and partners, not out of your pocket.
What we handle
& your checklist.
From planning to paperwork, we coordinate every detail of your journey so you don’t have to stress.
All we need from you are a few essentials to keep things moving smoothly.
What we do.
Your easy steps.
Ensure you're eligible
Fill out a consent form
Translate & manage paperwork
Get a GP referral letter
Surgery in as little as 21 days
Choose your surgery date
Handle your local travel
Travel for treatment
Book your clinic & surgeon
Keep your receipts
What we handle
& your checklist.
What we do.
From planning to paperwork, we coordinate every detail of your journey so you don’t have to stress.
Ensure you're eligible
Handle your local travel
Translate & manage paperwork
Book your clinic & surgeon
Surgery in as little as 21 days
Your easy steps.
All we need from you are a few essentials to keep things moving smoothly.
Fill out a consent form
Get a GP referral letter
Choose your surgery date
Travel for treatment
Keep your receipts
Book a FREE call and move one step closer to recovery.
Everything begins right here — from getting answers to booking your treatment. Speak to our team and take the first step in under 15 minutes.
Here's what to expect in our free call.
We’ll confirm your eligibility for the HSE scheme
You'll understand how the process applies to you
No confusion — you'll get a personalised next-step plan
Frequently Asked Questions.
Quick guidance to help with common queries.
How long does the process take?
Timelines vary slightly depending on your treatment type and availability, but most of our patients move from consultation to treatment within a 3 to 4 weeks — not months or years.
Do I have to organise travel and accommodation myself?
Yes — patients are responsible for arranging their own travel and accommodation, as these costs aren’t covered by the HSE. That said, we’re here to help every step of the way. Our team will guide you through the process, recommend trusted local accommodation, and ensure your trip is as smooth and stress-free as possible. Most importantly, you’ll gain quicker access to treatment and recovery — and for many, that’s priceless.
What expenses are covered by the HSE?
The HSE covers the full cost of your medical treatment, provided it’s eligible under the Cross-Border Directive. This includes consultations, surgery, and necessary post-operative care such as physiotherapy. However, travel, accommodation, and any non-medical expenses are not reimbursed. We’ll help you understand exactly what’s covered and ensure all paperwork is in place for your full treatment refund.
Can I bring someone with me?
Absolutely. We can help coordinate travel and accommodation for a companion, so you're fully supported during your stay.
Are the clinics and surgeons trustworthy?
We only work with licensed, award-winning clinics and specialists with extensive experience in treating international patients. You're in expert hands from day one.
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