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Schemes and allowances

Apply for benefits and schemes that can help with healthcare costs

Medical cards

Access medical services, prescription medicines and hospital care for free

European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)

Free or reduced cost healthcare when travelling in Europe

GP visit cards

Find out about the types of GP visit cards and how to apply

Drugs Payment Scheme

Pay no more than €80 a month for approved drugs, medicines and appliances

Fair deal scheme

Apply for financial support to help pay for the cost of nursing home care

Long-Term Illness Scheme

How to get free medicines and appliances for certain long-term illnesses or disabilities

Cross Border Directive

Access healthcare in another European state and apply for reimbursement towards the cost

Treatment Abroad Scheme

Apply to get public healthcare in the EU, EEA, UK or Switzerland if it's not available here

Northern Ireland Planned Healthcare Scheme

Access private healthcare in Northern Ireland and apply to be refunded the cost

Options available while on a hospital waiting list

There are options for accessing healthcare when you are on a public waiting list

Blind welfare allowance

A means-tested payment for people who are blind or visually impaired

Medical Cannabis Products Reimbursement Scheme

Apply for funding for cannabis-based products prescribed by your consultant

HSE National Lottery Grant Scheme

Organisations who provide health and personal social services can apply for funding