medical attention

noshot9 · Veteran Member

medical attention

Dude · Guru

In 1993 my adult daughter needed the services of a physician in Carrick on Suir. We just told our B&B hostess and she called around and found a doctor who would see her almost immediately. She was treated very well and the doctor even came out to the waiting room to meet her "chum" who he was amazed to find was her mother. We paid cash, not very much as I remember, and were given a prescription for a wonder drug not yet available in the States, also paid cash for it. I don't know whether she filed a claim or not since the amounts were negligible.

youngka · Guru

We have used the services two times. I had to pay for my doctor's visit in Kenmare and also my meds. In Mitchelstown -- we just mentioned the problem to the owner of our self catering cottage and we had an appointment the next day --the doctor (4 visits, and one visit to Emergency) were free. We hardly paid anything for 3 prescriptions. We were very impressed. Everyone was very helpful. My health plan covered all the expenses that I did have. Youngka

Michele Erdvig · Host

noshot,

Hospitals are in the larger cities. Not every small town has one. However, many do have an emergency clinic. As mentioned, your hosts are the best source. They can often get you into their own doctor's offices very quickly. If it is a real emergency you need to go to the emergency room at a hospital.

The pharmacists at the chemists shops are very helpful and knowledgable. If you just have a cold or something minor they will advise the best medication for you.

I have never had to see a doctor in Ireland but have seen a dentist. My B&B host got me an appointment right away with her personal dentist.

I suggest you check with your insurance company. If they cover you outside the USA most will require an invoice from your doctor or hospital in Ireland and will then reimburse you. If they don't cover you, consider buying trip insurance.

Michele

Anchoress · Guru

Here, in very rural areas, we have the Nowdoc scheme, so that an emergency doctor is available 24/7, either at a Nowdoc centre by immediate appointment, or a house call.

A nurse speaks to you on the phone on a triage system so it can be decided if an ambulance is needed also then.

Not sure how widespread this is in Ireland; we have it here in Donegal and it works very well.

Blessings

-- Edited by Anchoress at 11:57, 2008-08-16

Michele Erdvig · Host

Anchoress,

Thanks for the info for your area (Donegal). And for those with a real emergency dial 999 in Ireland.

Michele

Maggie117 · Guru

I work in the health insurance industry. Most health plans will cover emergencies that occur outside of their service area. You should contact your carrier and ask them directly what their policy is. In most cases, you will have to pay for the care at 100% and then file a claim when you return to the states. If it's denied you can always appeal the insurance companies decision.

Maggie

-- Edited by Maggie117 at 08:27, 2008-08-17

Dude · Guru

I am covered under BlueCrossBlueShield of Texas. I called them before my most recent trip to Ireland and they sent a brochure with coverages and procedures to follow should I need medical help overseas. Give your insurance company a call and see what's what.