Nothing hinders travel like a disease. Being sick in Ireland is not fun, like anywhere else in the world. So where should you go in Ireland if you need prescription drugs or even a doctor’s appointment?
Slainte (pronounced something like “slaan-shea”) is Irish for “health” and is a word you will hear often in Ireland to wish you well-being on your holidays. But what if (unfortunately) you need to know more about being sick in Irish? Where do you get help if you feel bad? Here are some helpful tips.
Please note that the estimated rates are for the Republic of Ireland. If you become ill in Northern Ireland, you will receive treatment under the provisions of the Health Trusts, often free of charge.
Medicines
Depending on the type of medicine you need, you can try the following;
- Corner stores, newsstands, and gas stations
Any store that sells daily necessities probably has some standard medications in stock to treat minor illnesses and ailments such as headaches, sore throats, coughs, and congestion. - Supermarkets
In addition to having a wide selection of over-the-counter medications, supermarkets are the ideal place to buy cheap generic aspirin, ibuprofen, and paracetamol (acetaminophen). Many will also carry allergy medications if a case of hay fever occurs.
- Pharmacies and dispensing pharmacies
Pharmacies are often clearly marked with a large green cross to help you identify where you can fill prescriptions for medications that are not available over the counter. Please note that you will need an Irish prescription and that some medications may not have the same brand name that you find in your home, even if the medication itself is identical. - Vaccines
You can get the flu shot from many chemicals for a small fee (often cheaper than a doctor’s), this is usually walk-in. All other vaccinations must be performed by a physician (sometimes known as a “family doctor” or general practitioner).
Doctors during the day
The easiest way to find medical care while traveling in Ireland is to ask the hotel reception to identify the nearest doctor (GP, general practitioner) and call them for you; This saves time and confusion. You will most likely be required to pay cash for the consultation, but this should generally cost no more than € 60, often less.
There are a few walk-in clinics in larger towns and cities, and these generally charge a bit more for convenience.
Doctors at night or on weekends
Most doctors have a strict “nine to five, Monday to Friday” (or less) hours. Outside of these hours, you should smile and bear it or contact the DOC. This acronym stands for “Doctor on Call,” an after-hours medical service at a central location. Again, ask reception for more details about the closest service. Expect the fees to be around € 100 out of pocket for a consultation.
Consultants and specialists
If you feel like you need to see a specialist, you should still plan to see a GP first; Consultants almost never accept patients without a referral.
Hospitals – Accident and Emergency Departments
Irish hospitals are geared towards extraordinary emergencies, not everyday illnesses, but for a variety of reasons A&E (Accident and Emergency) departments are regularly overrun by patients with minor ailments. A triage nurse will determine the urgency of any new arrivals, leading to long waits for some and a prompt reception for real emergencies. You can go to any A&E without a referral from another doctor; In the Republic of Ireland, there will be a € 100 charge for non-citizens.
Emergency medical services and ambulance transportation
In the event of a life-threatening emergency, you should immediately call 112 or 999 and request an ambulance, especially if there is trauma, blood loss, shortness of breath, loss of consciousness, or any similar risk. An ambulance will be dispatched immediately and then directed (under professional care) to the nearest suitable hospital.
Emergency ambulance services are provided by the Dublin Health Service Executive and Fire Brigade in the Republic, and by the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service north of the border. Private ambulances are also available, mainly for patient transfers.
dentists
Ask the hotel reception to make an appointment for you at a nearby dental office. However, unless you are in severe pain, it may be best to wait to visit the dentist when you return home. This shouldn’t be a criticism of Irish dentists – it’s just to acknowledge the fact that any treatment will likely be temporary and you’ll have to see your regular dentist anyway.
Alternative Medicines
There are large numbers of TCM practitioners in Ireland, with offices in locations in the city center. Today, almost all large city malls have a TCM office, offering on-site treatments (massages or acupuncture), long-term therapy, and herbal medications.
Physical therapists are also widely available, but chiropractors are relatively rare.
Other alternative medicines include the whole gamut, from homeopathic school to new age therapies. Please note that for all these services you will have to pay in cash.
