Private specialist referrals in Ireland

Why you usually need a referral

In Ireland, most consultants see patients on a referral from a GP or another doctor rather than directly. A referral letter does three jobs:

• it tells the consultant why you are being sent, what has been tried and what the GP is worried about
• it helps make sure you see the right type of specialist the first time
• it is often needed by your health insurer before they will pay a claim

Public or private?

A GP can refer you to a public hospital clinic or to a private consultant. Public outpatient appointments are free or low cost, but waiting lists for many specialties are long; the National Treatment Purchase Fund publishes current figures. A private referral is usually much quicker, but you pay the consultant’s fee yourself or through health insurance. You can go private even if you have a medical card.

How a private referral works

1. See a GP, who assesses you and agrees whether a referral is the right next step.
2. Agree who to see. The GP may suggest a consultant or specialty, or you may already have one in mind.
3. The GP writes the referral letter and sends it to the consultant or gives it to you.
4. Book the appointment with the consultant’s rooms or the private hospital, and ask about fees when you book.
5. After the appointment, the consultant usually writes back to your GP with their findings and plan.

What a good referral letter includes

• your symptoms, how long you have had them and how they affect you
• relevant medical history, medicines and allergies
• results of any tests or scans already done
• the question the GP wants the consultant to answer
• how urgently you should be seen

Ask for a copy for your own records. It is useful if you change consultant or need to make an insurance claim.

Costs and health insurance

Private consultants set their own fees, and scans, tests and follow-up visits are often charged separately. Before you book:

• ask the consultant’s rooms what the first appointment costs, and what tests might cost
• check whether your plan covers outpatient consultant fees, scans and tests, and whether a referral is required
• check whether the consultant is covered by your insurer, as plans can differ
• keep every receipt: you can claim tax relief on amounts your insurer does not refund

A referral letter is not confirmation of cover, so always check with your insurer first. Our guide to health insurance and GP visits explains how outpatient benefits work, and private GP costs in Ireland covers tax relief.

Scans and tests

Some private scans, such as MRI and CT, need a referral from a doctor. In many cases a GP can arrange a scan or blood test first, so the consultant has the results when you see them. That can save a second appointment.

Can an online GP refer you?

Yes. A GP can write a private referral after a video or phone consultation when they agree it is appropriate. If your problem needs an examination first, for example a lump or joint injury that needs to be felt, the GP will tell you. Our guide to how online GP consultations work explains what to expect, and international visitors can read how GP care works for visitors.

This guide is general information, not insurance or financial advice. Health insurance plans, benefits and rules vary and change over time, so always check the details of your own policy directly with your insurer before you book or claim.