Northern Ireland patients waiting over a year can now claim treatment costs in EU

Northern Ireland Health Minister Mike Nesbitt

Health Minister Mike Nesbitt has announced the expansion of Northern Ireland’s Waiting List Reimbursement Scheme, confirming that patients who have been waiting a year or more for hospital treatment will soon be able to access procedures across the European Union.

Phase Two of the £10 million scheme will officially open on Monday 15 September 2025, extending eligibility beyond the Republic of Ireland to approved healthcare providers throughout the EU.

The initiative, first launched in June, is designed to tackle long hospital waiting times by reimbursing patients for approved treatments received abroad, up to the equivalent Health and Social Care (HSC) cost.

Mr Nesbitt said:

“I am absolutely committed to making a real difference to waiting lists and to the lives of patients who have been waiting far too long for care.

“When I launched this scheme in June, I promised it would be extended to cover the wider EU, and today I am delivering on that promise.

“By reducing the qualifying period from two years to one year, and by widening access to the EU, I am giving more patients more options to get the treatment they need.

“This scheme is about listening to patients, being flexible, and taking practical action to ease pressure on waiting lists. Above all, it is about giving people quicker access to treatment, and the reassurance that they will be reimbursed up to the equivalent Health and Social Care cost.”

Key details of the scheme:

• Eligibility: Patients must be ordinarily resident in Northern Ireland and on a hospital waiting list for at least 12 months.

• Reimbursement: Costs will be covered up to the HSC equivalent rate. Prescription costs linked to a treatment episode may be reimbursed, subject to the same cap.

• Exclusions: Organ transplants, long-term social care, public vaccination programmes, and clinical trials are not included.

• Travel and accommodation: Not reimbursed; patients must arrange their own insurance and travel plans.

• Application process: Prior approval is required before treatment. Retrospective applications will not be accepted. Processing typically takes 4–6 weeks, with reimbursement issued 6–8 weeks after proof of payment.

An online information hub has been set up to provide guidance on eligibility, frequently asked questions, and application forms via HSC Online: Waiting List Reimbursement Scheme.

A dedicated helpline is also available Monday to Friday (10am–4pm) on 028 9536 8303 to assist with queries and applications.

The Department of Health has stressed that this scheme is one of several measures being deployed to reduce hospital waiting times as part of the Executive’s Programme for Government commitments.

FAQ: Waiting List Reimbursement Scheme

Who can apply?

Patients must live in Northern Ireland and be on a hospital waiting list for at least 12 months.

What treatments are covered?

Most hospital procedures are eligible. However, long-term social care, organ transplants, public vaccination programmes, and clinical trials are excluded.

Where can I get treatment?

You can choose an approved hospital or clinic in the Republic of Ireland or anywhere in the European Union.

How much will I get back?

You’ll be reimbursed up to the equivalent cost of treatment in Northern Ireland (or the HSC average cost, whichever is lower).

Are travel and accommodation costs covered?

No. You’ll need to cover these yourself and arrange travel insurance plus a valid UK GHIC card.

Do I need approval before treatment?

Yes. Prior approval is required. Retrospective applications won’t be accepted.

How long does it take to get reimbursed?

Applications take 4–6 weeks to process, and reimbursement is usually issued 6–8 weeks after proof of payment is received.

Where can I get help applying?

• Online hub: HSC Online: Waiting List Reimbursement Scheme

• Helpline: 028 9536 8303 (Mon–Fri, 10am–4pm)