Ireland is well-known for its lively cities and natural landscapes, including the Cliffs of Moher and the Ring of Kerry.
The standards for patient care and medical services in Ireland may differ from your home country. Ireland has public and private healthcare sectors that provide a high standard of care. Compared to other EU countries, Ireland has a relatively low number of doctors and a high number of nurses. Wait times for treatment and care can be long.
In the event of a medical emergency, contact your travel health insurance company immediately. Hospitals in Ireland require upfront payment, regardless if you have travel health insurance. Ensure that you have accessible funds to cover upfront fees and adequate travel health insurance. Before you depart, check with your insurer about the extent of their coverage in Ireland.
Pharmacies are available in cities and many rural areas. Prescriptions for medications must be obtained from a doctor. Pharmacists are trained and licensed.
If you are travelling with medication, check with Ireland’s embassy, consulate, or Ministry of Health for details on medication allowances and restrictions. If your medication is a psychotropic or narcotic, you can review Ireland’s regulations on the International Narcotics Control Board. Note that these sources may provide incomplete or out-of-date information.
Roads in Ireland are well maintained, but factors such as weather, landscape, and wildlife, as well as very narrow roads, can make driving dangerous. Seat belts must be worn by all passengers in vehicles at all times. Helmets must be worn by drivers and passengers of motorcycles at all times. Traffic drives on the left-hand side of the road.