What does the Reciprocal Health Care Agreement with Ireland provide cover for?

Australia’s Reciprocal Health Care Agreement (RHCA) with the Republic of Ireland provides cover for certain medical costs.  

In order for the RHCA to cover your medical costs in Ireland, medical care must be:  

• Medically necessary care that can’t wait until you get home to Australia, and 
• Within 12 months after you arrive to Ireland. 

The RHCA with Ireland covers the following types of medical costs:  

• Care as a public patient in a public hospital, 
• Maternity care, and 
• Part of the cost of prescription medications if you spend over a set amount in 1 month. 

The RCHA with Ireland does not cover the following types of medical costs:  

• Accommodation as a private patient in a private or public hospital, 
• Care as a private patient - this includes as a private patient in a public hospital, 
• Prescription medicines below a set amount in 1 month, 
• Anything you arranged before you got to Ireland, and 
• Visits to a GP. 

Keep in mind, Fast Cover’s travel insurance policy will not pay for the cost of medical care that is covered by the RHCA between Australia and Ireland. 

As each individual’s circumstances are different, we will assess each claim on a case by case basis and in accordance with your specific circumstances, policy terms and Certificate of Insurance.  

Any advice is general advice only and does not take into account your individual objectives, financial situation or needs. Consider the PDS as eligibility criteria, policy terms, conditions, exclusions and limits apply.