Cross-Border Healthcare scheme could benefit people in Louth – Fitzpatrick

Fine Gael TD for Louth, Peter Fitzpatrick, has encouraged more public patients in Louth to consider availing of healthcare under the Cross-Border Healthcare scheme.

“Under this scheme, any public patient with a referral letter from their GP or consultant is able to get treatment in another member state and claim reimbursement from the HSE.

“This would be particularly relevant for patients in Louth, who may want to travel to Northern Ireland for treatment, or to other EU countries.

“The Cross-Border initiative is separate to the Travel Abroad Scheme and is not limited to those whose treatment is either not available in Ireland, or where there are delays accessing care in Ireland.

“The Cross-Border scheme covers most areas of healthcare, including acute hospital procedures, dental care, speech and language therapy, as well as physiotherapy, disability and mental health services.

“In 2015 however only 16 people from Co. Louth accessed care abroad under the scheme. I’m surprised at this low take-up and would encourage people to consider the scheme as a viable option if they require healthcare.”