We ask for your Personal Public Service (PPS) number when you register for any health or social care services. This includes outpatient appointments or when you go to an emergency department (ED).
Your PPS number is the number you use to access public services. It is unique to you. It never changes. It's sometimes called your PPSN.
We will remind you to bring your PPS number with you when we write to you about an appointment. If the appointment is for your child, you should bring their PPS number.
Personal Public Service (PPS) Number - mywelfare.ie
Why we use your PPS number
Your PPS number helps healthcare staff to:
- identify you correctly
- connect you to your healthcare records
- include you in digital health advancements, such as electronic healthcare records or the health app
The HSE follows procedures to protect your PPS number and all other personal data.
Data Protection Impact Assessment - PPS numbers
How to find your PPS number
You can find your PPS number on:
- your public services card (PSC)
- letters from social welfare or the tax office
- your payslip
PPS numbers have 7 digits followed by 1 or 2 capital letters.
If you do not know your PPS number, contact your Intreo Centre or Social Welfare Branch Office.
No PPS number or don't want to share it
You will still receive healthcare if you
- do not have a PPS number
- do not want to provide your PPS number
- are a tourist or temporary visitor with no PPS number
We will use other ID methods to record your care and treatment. But it is easier for us to correctly identify you if you use your PPS.
Using someone else's PPS number
You cannot use someone else's PPS number. Your healthcare record should only contain your PPS number. If you cannot provide it, we will ask you to bring it with you to the next appointment.