Skip to content

The Treatment Abroad Scheme Explained: How Irish Patients Can Get Treatment in Europe

Last updated: 2026 | Reading time: approx. 7 minutes

For some patients in Ireland, the care they need is not available locally — or not available quickly enough.

In these situations, the Treatment Abroad Scheme (TAS) may allow you to access treatment in another European country, funded by the Health Service Executive (HSE).

This guide explains how the scheme works, who qualifies, and how to apply.

What Is the Treatment Abroad Scheme?

The Treatment Abroad Scheme (TAS) allows public patients in Ireland to receive healthcare in another EU or EEA country when:

  • The treatment is not available in Ireland, or
  • It is available, but not within a clinically appropriate timeframe

It is funded by the HSE and is generally used as a last resort.

However, for patients with:

  • Rare conditions
  • Complex needs
  • Or very long waiting times

It can be a vital pathway to receiving timely care.

Who Can Apply?

You may be eligible if:

  • You are a public patient (entitled to HSE care)
  • The treatment you need is not available in Ireland, or
  • The waiting time in Ireland is clinically unacceptable
  • An Irish consultant has recommended the treatment abroad

Important

This scheme is not intended for patients who simply prefer to travel.

There must be a clear clinical reason why treatment cannot be provided in Ireland within a reasonable timeframe.

What Countries Are Covered?

The scheme applies to:

  • All EU member states
  • EEA countries
  • The UK (in certain circumstances under post-Brexit arrangements)

Treatment must take place in a:

  • Public hospital
  • Or a publicly funded healthcare provider

How Does the Application Work?

The process is consultant-led and involves several steps.

1. Consultant referral

Your hospital consultant in Ireland must:

  • Recommend the treatment
  • Initiate the application

You cannot apply independently without this.

2. Application to the HSE

The application is submitted to the HSE Treatment Abroad Scheme office for review.

3. Assessment

The HSE will assess:

  • Whether the treatment is available in Ireland
  • Whether the waiting time is clinically acceptable
  • Whether treatment abroad is justified

4. Approval and arrangements

If approved:

  • The HSE will fund the treatment
  • Arrangements are made with an appropriate hospital abroad

5. Costs

  • Medical treatment is covered
  • Travel and accommodation are usually not covered

In some cases, partial support for travel may be available through separate schemes. You should ask the TAS office for details.

The EU Cross-Border Healthcare Directive

There is a related but separate option:

The EU Cross-Border Healthcare Directive

This allows you to:

  • Access healthcare in another EU country
  • Pay upfront
  • Claim reimbursement from the HSE

Key differences from TAS:

  • You usually do not need prior approval (except for certain procedures)
  • You pay first, then claim back
  • Reimbursement is capped at the cost of treatment in Ireland

When is this useful?

This route can be helpful for:

  • Faster consultations
  • Diagnostic tests (e.g. MRI scans)
  • Specialist opinions

Some patients travel to countries such as:

  • Germany
  • France
  • The Netherlands

to access quicker services.

How to Apply for the Treatment Abroad Scheme

To begin the process:

  • Speak to your hospital consultant and request that they initiate an application

You can also contact the HSE directly:

Key Points to Remember

  • Treatment abroad must be recommended by an Irish consultant
  • It is used when treatment is not available or not available in time in Ireland
  • The EU Cross-Border Directive is a separate and more flexible option in some cases
  • Medical costs are covered under TAS, but travel costs usually are not
  • It is best to start the process early, as approval can take several weeks

Related Guides

  • How Hospital Waiting Lists Work in Ireland
  • What Is the National Treatment Purchase Fund (NTPF) and How Can It Help You?
  • What to Do If You Can’t Get a Hospital Appointment

Further Information

Important Information

This article is for general informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. If you have urgent health concerns, contact your GP or emergency services.