# Irish Healthcare System | Healthcare | Moving to Ireland > The healthcare system in Ireland is a complex mix of public and private services, with the government providing the majority of funding. Ireland's… Source: https://www.movingtoireland.co/guides/healthcare/irish-healthcare-system/ Healthcare · Step 1 of 6 # Irish Healthcare System 2 min read · Updated 13 September 2026 The healthcare system in Ireland is a complex mix of public and private services, with the government providing the majority of funding. Ireland's healthcare system is ranked 16th in the world in terms of overall performance, according to the World Health Organization. Public healthcare in Ireland is provided through the [Health Service Executive (HSE)](http://www.hse.ie), which is responsible for delivering health and personal social services to the population. The HSE provides a range of services, including hospitals, community care, mental health services, and primary care services such as GPs and public health nurses. These services are available to all residents of Ireland, regardless of their ability to pay. While the HSE is the primary healthcare provider in Ireland, private healthcare is also available for those who wish to pay for it. Private healthcare is provided by numerous private hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare providers throughout the country. These services are generally pricier than public healthcare, but may offer shorter waiting times and more personalized care. The Irish government has introduced some initiatives aimed at improving the country's healthcare system. [The Sláintecare report](http://www.gov.ie/en/publication/9652b-slaintecare-progress-report-2021/), published in 2017, recommended some changes to the system, including a shift towards community-based care, the establishment of a single-tier health service, and increased investment in primary care services. The government has also pledged to increase healthcare spending in the coming years, with a focus on improving mental health services and reducing waiting times for elective procedures. Despite these initiatives, Ireland's healthcare system still faces some challenges. Waiting times for some services can be lengthy, and there are concerns about a shortage of healthcare professionals in certain areas. The high cost of healthcare is also a concern, with many people struggling to afford private health insurance. In conclusion, Ireland's healthcare system is a mix of public and private services, with the government providing the majority of funding. The system is generally well-regarded, but faces several challenges, including waiting times for certain services and the high cost of healthcare. The government has introduced numerous initiatives aimed at improving the system, and has pledged to increase healthcare spending in the coming years. * * * ## ★ Useful links - [HSE website](http://www.hse.ie) - [The Sláintecare report](http://www.gov.ie/en/publication/9652b-slaintecare-progress-report-2021/) ![](https://www.movingtoireland.co/apple-touch-icon.png) You have read 30% of this guide ## Keep reading in the Moving to Ireland app The rest of **Irish Healthcare System** — about 1 minute more — is in the app, free to download, alongside 98 other guides and a checklist built around your own move. [Download free on the App Store](https://apps.apple.com/app/moving-to-ireland/id6446055261) iPhone and iPad · no account needed ## More on healthcare [All 6 guides in this section](https://www.movingtoireland.co/guides/healthcare/) - ### [Find a GP](https://www.movingtoireland.co/guides/healthcare/general-practitioners-in-ireland/) General Practitioners (GPs) are the primary healthcare providers in Ireland. They are usually the first point of contact for individuals seeking medical… 2 min read - ### [Emergency Health Services](https://www.movingtoireland.co/guides/healthcare/emergency-health-services/) In Ireland, emergency health services are operated by the Health Service Executive (HSE). If you require urgent medical attention, there are several… 2 min read - ### [Medical Insurances](https://www.movingtoireland.co/guides/healthcare/medical-insurances/) Health insurance in Ireland is an important consideration for those looking to protect themselves and their families against unexpected medical expenses… 2 min read - ### [Children's health](https://www.movingtoireland.co/guides/healthcare/childrens-health/) Children in Ireland have access to a range of healthcare services. Many of these services are free, while some require payment. 2 min read · For Parents Keep going ## Get the full healthcare roadmap in the app Moving to Ireland turns 99 guides into a personal checklist. 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