Cross Border Directive / NI Planned Healthcare Scheme

Accessing Healthcare through the Northern Ireland Planned Healthcare Scheme at Kingsbridge Private Hospital

The Northern Ireland Planned Healthcare Scheme (formerly the EU Cross Border Directive) allows residents of Ireland to access healthcare in Northern Ireland, with costs reimbursed (fully or partially) by the HSE.

At Kingsbridge Private Hospital, we’ve been treating patients under this scheme since 2015, helping over 25,000 Irish residents access timely surgery and treatment.

What Is the Northern Ireland Planned Healthcare Scheme?

This scheme allows you to receive treatment in Northern Ireland and claim reimbursement from your local HSE office. It’s ideal if you’re facing long waiting times in Ireland. You don’t even need to be on a waiting list — if you know you need surgery, you can contact us directly, and we’ll guide you through the process.

Who Can Apply?

• ✔ Are entitled to public healthcare in Ireland
• ✔ Have a referral from a GP or consultant
• ✔ Apply for HSE reimbursement (we’ll help you with this)

Still unsure? Our dedicated One2One service can assist with any queries. Alternatively, you can read more on the scheme here: HSE NI Planned Healthcare Scheme

How It Works

1. Contact us: Call or email our Cross Border Healthcare Team — we’ll explain everything and support you from the start.
2. GP referral: Ask your GP for a referral to a Kingsbridge consultant. (Bring any recent scans or tests.)
3. Consultation: Meet your consultant. We’ll assist with all necessary HSE paperwork.
4. HSE approval (if needed): For overnight stays, pre-approval is required. We’ll help with the application. No pre-approval is needed for day-case procedures.
5. Book surgery: Once approved, we’ll schedule your procedure. Payment is made before treatment.
6. Surgery & recovery: Have your surgery, then submit your invoice to the HSE for reimbursement (typically processed within 10–12 weeks).
7. 
   

What Treatments Are Covered?

We offer a wide range of procedures under the scheme.

Fully reimbursable surgery includes:

• Hip & Knee Replacements
• Gallbladder Removal
• ACL Surgery
• Hysterectomy & Vasectomy
• Nose Septoplasty
• Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy
• 
  

Partially reimbursable surgery includes:

• Cataract Surgery
• Spinal Surgery
• Gynaecological Procedures
• Carpal Tunnel Release
• Varicose Vein Surgery
• And more...
• 
  

Why Choose Kingsbridge?

• Fast Access: Avoid long waiting lists and get treated sooner
• No need to travel abroad: Stay on the island and avoid any risks of flying after surgery
• Exceptional Care: Experienced consultants and advanced facilities
• Hassle-Free Process: Support from our team every step of the way

We're Here to Help

We know the process can seem complex — that’s why our dedicated team is here to guide you from first contact through to aftercare, making your journey as smooth as possible.

Need support? Contact us at:
CrossBorder@kingsbridgehealthcaregroup.com