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

Healthcare professionals in a hospital setting, with a doctor in a white coat holding a stethoscope and a nurse standing with arms crossed, both in a blurred medical background.

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, or fill in our expat interview form to be featured.

Expat Health Insurance

Cigna Health Insurance

Offer Extended! Save 10% For Life on Cigna Global Health Insurance

Offer extended until 31st December! Moving your family abroad is an exciting time, but for peace of mind, ensure you get health insurance. Insure with Cigna Healthcare before December 31st, 2025, and benefit from 10% off for the lifetime of your policy. Cigna Global Health Insurance gives you access to the best health professionals and includes a Multilingual Customer Care team you can call 24/7. Your discount lasts as long as your policy does!

Get a Free Quote Now

Moving Internationally?

Sirelo logo

International Movers. Get Quotes. Compare Prices.

Sirelo has a network of more than 500 international removal companies that can move your furniture and possessions to your new home. By filling in a form, you’ll get up to 5 quotes from recommended movers. This service is free of charge and will help you select an international moving company that suits your needs and budget.

Get your free no-obligation quotes from select removal companies now!