Potential reimbursements for medical treatment abroad
What is it?
EU citizens have the right to seek medical treatment in any EU member state, with some conditions on reimbursement for planned healthcare. Under EU Directive 2011/24/EU, if treatment is available in your home country but you choose to go abroad, you may be reimbursed for treatment costs, either partially or fully, depending on the regulations of the country you are residing in.
In what cases is it applicable? ∙
Planned healthcare that is not urgent: This procedure is used for non-emergency treatments where you decide to seek care abroad instead of in your home country. It’s applicable when you choose to go to another EU/EEA country for treatments that are not immediately required. ∙
When the treatment is available in your home country but you prefer to go abroad: For instance, you may decide to seek treatment in another country for reasons like shorter waiting times, specialized services, or access to better medical facilities.
Examples of treatments and cases where this procedure can be used:
- Elective surgeries such as joint replacements, cosmetic procedures, or dental treatments.
- Fertility treatments, including IVF (in vitro fertilization), where a patient may choose a country with shorter waiting lists or more advanced technologies.
- Cardiological treatments, such as coronary bypass surgery, where specialized care is needed.
- Cancer treatments (e.g., radiation or chemotherapy) where advanced equipment or expertise is available in another country.
- Orthopedic treatments, including knee or hip replacements, where waiting times or quality of care may be better abroad.
- Psychiatric treatments, such as therapy or specialized care for mental health disorders.
- Dental care, including procedures like implants or orthodontics, that might be more affordable or available with less waiting time in other countries.
List of applicable countries: The directive applies to all EU member states, as well as Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein, which are part of the European Economic Area (EEA). It also covers Switzerland under a bilateral agreement.
Process Description:
1.Before Treatment:
- Check with your health insurance: Ensure that your health insurance will cover the planned treatment abroad.
- Request prior authorization: For certain treatments, you may need prior approval from your national health insurance authority, especially if the treatment involves high costs or complex procedures.
2.During Treatment:
- Undergo the treatment in your chosen EU/EEA country. oEnsure you retain all invoices, receipts, and relevant medical documentation for reimbursement claims.
3.After Treatment:
- Submit the invoices and treatment documents to your national health insurance system for reimbursement.
- The reimbursement will follow the rules of your home country and can cover either partial or full costs depending on the treatment and local regulations.
Patients can expect a reimbursement process that may take some time and require additional documentation, depending on the complexity of the treatment. For more information check: Europa.eu.
Contact Your National Contact Point: Europa.eu
