CATARACT SURGERY IN IRELAND
Are you searching for cataract surgery in Ireland?
Are you a public patient residing in Ireland?
Do you require cataract treatment that is covered by Ireland’s public health services?
If you have answered ‘yes’ to any of these questions, you may be eligible to receive cataract surgery under the Northern Ireland Planned Healthcare Scheme, with treatment costs partially reimbursed through the Health Service Executive (HSE).
Say goodbye to long waiting lists, under the scheme, patients can expect swift and efficient treatment at Cathedral Eye Clinic, Belfast, with surgery scheduled within 4-6 weeks of the initial referral.
At Cathedral Eye Clinic, we understand the importance of timely care, and that’s why we ensure that consultation and surgery can be completed within 48 hours, if required. Call 01 431 1094 to speak with one of our dedicated Cross-Border team, who will guide you through every step of the process, from your initial assessment to post-operative care.
At Cathedral Eye Clinic, our expert team of Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeons, Optometrists and Patient Care Nurses have been transforming the health of Irish citizens, both through the Directive and as private patients (especially in the surgical treatment of cataracts). We take pride in ensuring that applicants meet all relevant eligibility criteria, securing reimbursement from the Health Service Executive (HSE). Our patient pathway has been praised across Ireland for its focus on comfort, care and ideal clinical outcomes.
At Cathedral Eye Clinic, our highly skilled Ophthalmic Surgeons provide patients with the confidence of knowing that they receive full and comprehensive clinical care. Led by Professor Moore, specialists in refractive cataract surgery combine their expertise in pre-operative assessment and surgical skills to ensure the greatest chances of achieving an ideal surgical and refractive outcome after cataract surgery.
Years of research and exceptional audit data have led Cathedral Eye Clinic to introduce artificial intelligence into biometry examinations. This cutting-edge technology aims to enhance the ability to predict refractive outcomes with even greater accuracy, further assisting in improving surgical results.
Cathedral Eye Clinic is exceptionally fortunate to have a full team of highly specialised vitreoretinal surgeons. This team is equipped to handle any immediate cataract complications and subsequent issues that may arise months or years after surgery. As a tertiary IOL exchange referral centre in Ireland, the Clinic has been providing this essential service for many years.
The clinical team at Cathedral Eye Clinic takes great pride in offering the most comprehensive and up-to-date medical and surgical ophthalmic care. This commitment ensures that patients can confidently choose Cathedral Eye Clinic for their eye surgery, knowing they are in capable hands.
Furthermore, Cathedral Eye Clinic has established widespread ophthalmic partnerships throughout Ireland. These partnerships enable seamless referrals and local follow-up care, ensuring patients receive the most expert attention and support, both during their treatment and throughout their recovery.
How Do I Access Treatment Under The Cross Border Healthcare Scheme?
Our Patient Care Team will take the stress out of the process, by guiding you step-by-step through our treatment pathway. They will also assist with the filling out of all the HSE forms.
- Contact Cathedral Eye Clinic, and our dedicated Patient Care Team will talk you through the Cross-Border Process and book your initial consultation
- Contact your GP or optician for a letter of referral, addressed to Cathedral Eye Clinic
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Day 1: Consultation.
Day 2: The following day, treatment is completed at Cathedral Eye Clinic.
After treatment a Post-Operative appointment will be arranged, either at Cathedral Eye Clinic or your local Optician, for your convenience. - Submit the invoices and proof of payment to the HSE (within 60 days of treatment)
- Your treatment costs are partially reimbursed by the HSE
- Still have some questions? Click here to scroll down to the FAQ section
Ready To Take The Next Step?
Call us on 01 4311094, or fill out the form below, and a member of our specialist Patient Care Team will help you begin the journey towards vision you will love.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Northern Ireland Planned Healthcare Scheme (previously known as the Cross Border Directive), allows you to skip the HSE waiting list and receive cataract surgery in Northern Ireland. You pay for the treatment and then claim the cost back from the Health Service Executive (HSE).
The Northern Ireland Planned Healthcare Scheme is available to Irish residents who are entitled to public healthcare.
You must also have a referral letter from you GP or local Optometrist, addressed to Cathedral Eye Clinic
If you are unsure if you qualify for the scheme, you can check your eligibility status by calling the HSE on 056 778 4546.
You do not need to be on a waiting list to be eligible for the scheme.
No, you do not need to be on a waiting list to avail of the scheme.
The reimbursement amount by the HSE, is based on the what the cataract surgery would have cost in Ireland. Patients can claim reimbursement for their Consultation and Surgery.
You cannot claim reimbursement for travel costs, accommodation or any prescription medicine costs.
To discuss the treatment costs and reimbursement amounts in more detail, our Patient Care team can be contacted on 01 431 1094.
Patients can expect swift and efficient treatment at Cathedral Eye Clinic, with surgery scheduled within 4-6 weeks of the initial referral.
Most patients make two visits to the clinic-
Visit one- Consultation
Visit two- Surgery
However, we can offer consultation and surgery within one visit (48 hours), if preferred.
Note- overnight accommodation would be required- our Patient Care team can assist in arranging this, however the cost must be covered by the patient.
Yes, the Ramada Hotel, St Annes Square is 2-minute walking distance from our Clinic. The Ramada Hotel offer our patients a preferential rate. Our Patient Care Team can assist with this and can be contacted on 01 431 1094 for more information.
Yes, we encourage patients to have a companion or family member accompany them for support, to both their Consultation and Surgery. During surgery, your companion or family member can wait in our relaxed reception area, or take advantage of the many cafes, shops and local sites within walking distance of our Clinic.
Our dedicated Patient Care Team are on hand to guide you through the process from start to finish. They will assist you with paperwork throughout to ensure a seamless process and reimbursement.
Cathedral Eye Clinic has established partnerships with local Optometrists throughout Ireland. These partnerships enable post-operative appointments with your local Optometrist, rather than travelling back to Belfast. Ensuring you receive the most expert attention and support, both during your treatment and throughout your recovery.
Call Cathedral Eye Clinic on 01 431 1094 to speak with our friendly team and schedule your Consultation. They will talk you through the process and assist you with any queries or concerns you may have.
After Care packages
Following all treatments, our personal and comprehensive aftercare package will ensure your recovery is safe and successful. Our clinical team will conduct a full and thorough consultation following your treatment.
Your review appointments will be tailored to your specific needs and will be carried out by our experienced team of Optometrists.
Aftercare appointments take place as follows:
Within one week post-operation
One month post-operation
One-year post-operation
As part of the overall cost of your treatment, we offer one year’s aftercare.*
*Complimentary care with our Optometry team for one year following surgery, additional treatments or appointments with consultants may incur additional costs