Your Guide to the Cross Border Directive Scheme

In the intricate landscape of European healthcare, the Cross Border Directive (CBD) emerges as a transformative scheme, offering a gateway to planned medical services across European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA) member states. Here’s your comprehensive guide on how to access the Cross Border Directive Scheme, ensuring you can navigate this empowering avenue effectively. Your Guide to the Cross Border Directive Scheme

Understanding the CBD Scheme:

1. Scope and Applicability:
   • The CBD exclusively covers healthcare services publicly available in Ireland. It is designed for planned healthcare needs, allowing individuals to seek treatment in other EU or EEA countries.
2. Eligibility Criteria:
   • To apply for the CBD scheme in Ireland, certain criteria must be met:
     • Ordinary residency in Ireland for at least one year.
     • Entitlement to public healthcare in Ireland.
     • Qualification for the desired healthcare as a public patient in Ireland.
     • Possession of a valid referral letter.
3. Reimbursement Process:
   • Individuals must pay for healthcare received abroad but can apply to the Health Service Executive (HSE) for reimbursement. The process involves having a valid referral, qualifying for public healthcare in Ireland, and following the CBD process.

Navigating the Public Healthcare Process:

1. Qualification for CBD in Ireland:
   • If your income is from another country, qualification for the CBD in Ireland may be impacted. It’s crucial to check which country can process your claim.
2. Verification of Referral:
   • Using a public referral or waiting list letter, patients can access healthcare abroad. The referral letter should include specific details like the consultant’s name, medical condition summary, and required healthcare.
3. Contacting the National Contact Point:
   • Uncertain about your eligibility? Reach out to the Cross Border Directive office, also known as the National Contact Point, for guidance.
4. Referral Sources:
   • Referrals for CBD healthcare can only be made by a GP or a consultant seen as a public patient. Private healthcare accessed in Ireland cannot be part of the CBD patient pathway.

CBD Process Steps:

1. Valid Referral Letter:
   • Obtain a valid referral for public healthcare from a GP or hospital consultant in Ireland.
2. Outpatient Consultation Abroad:
   • Attend an outpatient appointment with a healthcare provider abroad.
3. Travel for Healthcare:
   • Travel abroad for the planned healthcare, keeping proof of both consultation and treatment travels.
4. Complete CBD Pro Forma Invoice:
   • Collaborate with the healthcare provider abroad to complete the CBD pro forma invoice.
5. Reimbursement Application:
   • Apply for reimbursement towards the healthcare cost, submitting necessary documentation, including proof of travel.

Additional Considerations:

1. Claim Processing in Other Countries:
   • Depending on your income source, you may need to apply for the CBD scheme in another EU or EEA country. Each country’s National Contact Point can provide guidance.
2. Costs Covered by CBD:
   • The CBD scheme covers costs directly related to healthcare. Reimbursement is not applicable for travel expenses, prescription costs, or translation expenses. Maximum payments are based on the cost of public healthcare in Ireland.
3. Prescriptions from Abroad:
   • Prescriptions received abroad from healthcare providers should be valid for use in Ireland.

As you navigate the Cross Border Directive Scheme, remember that it stands as a pivotal mechanism, providing individuals with the liberty to seek quality healthcare beyond geographical boundaries. Empower yourself with information and ensure a smooth journey through this healthcare access avenue.

Your Guide to the Cross Border Directive Scheme

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