Robert Troy
Question:1717. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Health if the E111, now known as the EHIC, covers UK citizens for out-of-hours doctor appointments while in Ireland (details supplied). [42785/22]
View answerThursday, 8 September 2022
Questions (1717)
Written answers
The Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA) between the EU and the UK provides for a continuation of healthcare rights when on a temporary stay in a State covered by the Agreement. Residents of the UK can continue to use their UK EHIC or GHIC to access necessary care while on a temporary stay in an EU Member State, including Ireland. This necessary treatment includes GP treatment if it is deemed medically necessary by a medical practitioner.
GPs are private contractors, most of whom hold a GMS contract with the HSE for the provision of medical services without charge to patients who hold a medical card or GP visit card. GPs contracted under the GMS scheme are required by their contract to make suitable arrangements to enable contact to be made with them, or a locum or deputy, for emergencies outside of normal practice hours; most meet this obligation through participation with GP out of hours co-operatives. Similarly, EHIC card holders visiting Ireland can access necessary care free of charge with GPs contracted under the GMS scheme, including out-of-hour GP consultations.
Regarding this specific case raised by the deputy, as this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to the deputy directly, as soon as possible.