We’re delighted to announce the launch of our Cross Border Initiative!
Patients living in Ireland can now have their cataracts treated at our Belfast Eye Hospital and claim back up to €3,000* from the HSE through the Cross Border Directive.
What is the Cross Border Directive?
The Cross Border Healthcare Directive allows eligible patients to receive planned healthcare in another European Union (EU) or European Economic Area (EAA) country.
Patients can then apply to the HSE for reimbursement of treatment costs, up to the amount the procedure would cost within the Irish public healthcare system.
How will the Cross Border Initiative Work at Optical Express?
Patients will be able to have their consultation at their chosen clinic in Ireland, you can view these clinics here. If suitable, you’ll then:
- Have your cataract surgery carried out at Optical Express Belfast Eye Hospital.
- Return home the same day.
- Submit your claim to the HSE for reimbursement (up to €1,500 per eye).
- Have your aftercare appointment at your original consultation clinic.
Reimbursement is subject to HSE approval and is based on the equivalent cost of treatment within the Irish public system.
Who is eligible for the Cross Border Initiative?
All our Ireland cataract patients are likely to be eligible for the Cross Border Initiative.
According to the HSE, you must:
- Be living in Ireland for 1 year or intend to live in Ireland for at least 1 year.
- Be eligible for the treatment within the public health system in Ireland.
- Have an outpatient consultation before inpatient or day-case treatment
More information on our Cross Border Initiative can be found here.
Our Belfast Hospital
Optical Express Belfast Eye Hospital is a state-of-the-art vision correction surgery centre in Belfast city centre. It has benefited from the significant investment across our network of clinics and is equipped with advanced diagnostic and surgical technology.
The hospital is easily accessible by car and public transport, including proximity to the Belfast Grand Central Station (formerly Belfast Transport Hub).
Patients are treated by some of our most experienced surgeons, including our Deputy Medical Director Dr Huba Kiss, who has personally performed thousands of cataract procedures in his career.
Why Choose the Cross Border Initiative at Optical Express?
Choosing to have your cataract surgery through the Cross-Border Initiative means:
- You can claim back up to €1,500 per eye.
- Your wait time for surgery may be significantly reduced, compared to the public healthcare pathways.
- You’ll have access to experienced cataract surgeons.
- You’ll have your treatment in a dedicated, specialist eye hospital.
Cataracts can cause blurred or cloudy vision, making everyday activities such as reading, watching television and driving more difficult. As vision deteriorates, confidence and independence can also be affected.
Timely treatment can restore clearer vision and improve overall quality of life.
Book your complimentary, no-obligation consultation today or call 1800 818 543 to discuss your treatment options.
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