Free clinic in Kells to advise on accessing healthcare abroad
Residents in Kells are being invited to attend a free clinic next week offering advice on accessing medical treatment abroad.
Organised in collaboration with independent community representative and Meath Commissioner for Oaths Cormac Corr, the clinic will be delivered by Healthcare Abroad, a company that supports patients seeking treatment in other European countries under the EU Cross-Border Healthcare Directive.
The service allows Irish patients to travel abroad for procedures available within the public system and claim reimbursement from the HSE, often significantly reducing waiting times.
Information on treatment options, hospital choices, travel arrangements and the reimbursement process, as well as answering individual queries, will be provided.
Mr Corr said the initiative aims to ensure people are aware of all options available to them amid ongoing pressures on the health system.
“People right across the country are all too familiar with the reality of long waiting lists for essential procedures, and the stress and uncertainty that comes with that,” he said.
“While my strong preference is for a healthcare system that delivers timely care here at home, the scale of the current backlog means we must also ensure people are aware of every option available to them.”
Healthcare Abroad’s chief operations officer, Paul Byrne, will be in attendance to speak with members of the public and provide practical guidance.
“This will be a welcoming and supportive environment, and I would encourage anyone with an interest to come along,” Mr Corr added.
Organisers said the event is aimed at people currently on waiting lists, considering treatment, or seeking more information about their entitlements under the scheme.
The drop-in event will take place at Iona Hall on Bective Street on Wednesday, May 6, from 10am to 12pm, and free to attend.