City in County Galway, Ireland
Healthcare in Galway: hospitals, costs and insurance
Healthcare in Galway
Public emergency departments are busy, with long waits. Non-EU visitors may be charged, so carry insurance; GP visits are paid out of pocket.
Hospitals for foreigners in Galway
| Hospital | Good to know |
|---|---|
| University Hospital Galway | Main emergency department; Newcastle Road |
| Galway Clinic | Private hospital in Doughiska |
Key facts
- Doctor's visit: €60–90 ($68–101) at a private clinic without insurance.
- In Ireland: Good care but crowded emergency departments. GP visits cost about €60–90; non-EU visitors pay full hospital costs, so carry travel insurance.
- Pharmacies: Pharmacies in every town; pharmacists advise on minor ailments, but many medicines need a prescription.
- Health spending: US$7,395 per person a year (2024); 3.9 doctors per 1,000 people (2023), World Bank.
- Emergency: Police 999 · Ambulance 999 · Fire 999 · All emergencies 999.
Travel and health insurance
Travel insurance isn't required to enter Ireland, but treatment for visitors is paid upfront.
| Insurer | Good for |
|---|---|
| SafetyWing Nomad Insurance | Monthly subscription for nomads and long trips; cancel anytime. |
| Genki | Health insurance for nomads, from a European insurer. |
| World Nomads | Trip insurance that covers many adventure activities. |
| Heymondo | Single-trip, annual and long-stay plans with a medical app. |
| IMG Global | Travel medical and long-term international health plans. |
Quick answers
What is the best hospital in Galway for foreigners?
University Hospital Galway: Main emergency department; Newcastle Road
How much does a doctor's visit cost in Galway?
About €60–90 ($68–101) at a private clinic.
Do I need travel insurance for Ireland?
It isn't required for entry, but recommended: hospitals in Ireland expect visitors to pay or show insurance.
More about Galway
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Sources
- World Bank: health expenditure per capita
- CDC Travelers' Health: Ireland
- Galway City Council
- Failte Ireland
- Transport for Ireland
- Galway Clinic
SoloSquare has no commercial relationship with the insurers listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.