- Download our Moving to Dublin Guide (PDF)
Healthcare in Dublin is first-rate, and the city's hospitals offer quality care and treatment. Ireland's healthcare scheme gives you free or subsidised access if you plan to reside in Ireland for one year or more. The nationals of EU countries have similar benefits with a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC).
Usually, a general practitioner will first recommend that you receive care in a hospital. You need a GP referral to avoid charges for hospital treatment. Waiting lists for treatment can become long, even for urgent care. This has led many locals and newcomers to opt for private insurance.
Private medical insurance in Ireland gives you access to private hospitals and medical facilities with no waiting lists. Ensure your overseas insurance is accepted by contacting your insurer and confirming coverage in Ireland.
Many companies in Dublin offer private insurance. If you prefer private healthcare, we recommend negotiating with your employer for at least a healthcare subsidy before arriving in Dublin.
Read more about Healthcare and Health Insurance in Ireland.
Hospitals in Dublin
Beaumont Hospital
Website: www.beaumont.ie
Address: Beaumont Road, Beaumont, Dublin 9
Children's University Hospital
Website: www.cuh.ie
Address: 1 Temple Street, North City, Dublin 1
Mater Misericordiae University Hospital
Website: www.mater.ie
Address: Eccles St, Inns Quay, Dublin 7
St James's Hospital
Website: www.stjames.ie
Address: James’s Street, Ushers, Dublin 8
St Luke's Hospital
Website: www.stlukesnetwork.ie
Address: Oakland Drive, Highfield Road, Dublin 6
St Vincent's University Hospital
Website: www.stvincents.ie
Address: Elm Park, Merrion Road, Dublin 4
What do expats say about Dublin's healthcare system?
"My experience regarding healthcare is positive. I have had some problems with my health in the past and the care has been excellent. I can’t complain about the public health system in Ireland. In my view, the main difference between the two healthcare systems is the waiting time to have an appointment."
For more, read Chilean expat Alejandra's interview.
Further reading
►For more on housing in the city, see Accommodation in Dublin
Are you an expat living in Dublin?
Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to Dublin. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute.
Expat Health Insurance
Cigna Global Health Insurance
Moving your family abroad can be intimidating, but learning about medical options such as family health insurance early on can help you successfully settle in.
- Comprehensive family coverage, wherever you go
- Paediatric coverage for well-child visits & immunisations
- Access to dental and orthodontic care
- 24/7 multilingual customer service
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