Yes, many health insurance plans in Ireland include physiotherapy cover, and you do not need a GP referral to book an appointment. This guide explains how to claim, what is usually covered, and what happens at your first visit to our Dublin 2 clinic.
Need help? Read about our prices and insurance information, or book an appointment in Dublin 2 or online.
| GP referral needed? | No, you can book a physiotherapist directly |
|---|---|
| Insurers | VHI, Laya Healthcare and Irish Life Health, plus schemes such as ESB, Garda Medical Aid, PDFORA and RACO |
| How much back? | Depends on your plan; you may be able to claim up to 75% of each session |
| How to claim | Pay on the day, then claim using your receipt |
| Perks at Work | 22% off a full consultation for eligible tech employees |
Do you need a GP referral?
No. Physiotherapists in Ireland are first-contact practitioners, so you can book directly. Your physiotherapist will refer you back to your GP or a consultant if anything needs medical review or imaging. A small number of insurance plans or claims may ask for a referral, so it is worth checking your policy.
Which health insurers cover physiotherapy?
Our physiotherapy is covered by VHI, Laya Healthcare and Irish Life Health, along with schemes including ESB, Garda Medical Aid, PDFORA and RACO. Most plans with outpatient or day-to-day benefits pay a set amount per visit, up to a yearly limit. Depending on your plan, you may be able to claim back up to 75% of each session.
Insurers generally require treatment from a physiotherapist registered with CORU, the Irish regulator for health and social care professionals. Our physiotherapists are CORU-registered.
How to claim
- Book and attend your session
- Keep the receipt we provide after payment
- Submit it through your insurer’s app or website
- Check your remaining visits each year, as most plans have a limit
Can you get tax relief?
Revenue allows tax relief at 20% on some health expenses. Physiotherapy qualifies when you are prescribed, referred or advised to have it by a practitioner, such as your GP or consultant. You cannot claim relief on any part that your insurer has already refunded. See Revenue’s health expenses guidance for full details.
What happens at your first appointment?
- Your story: how the problem started, what makes it better or worse, and your goals
- Assessment: movement, strength, nerve and joint tests, and a review of any scans
- Clear explanation: what is going on and how long recovery is likely to take
- Treatment: hands-on treatment where helpful and your first exercises
- A plan: a step-by-step programme so you know exactly what to do next
Wear comfortable clothes, and bring any scan reports and your insurance details. Can’t come to Dublin? We also offer online consultations.
How many sessions will I need?
It depends on the problem and your goals. Many people need a handful of sessions spread over several weeks, with most of the work done through their exercise programme between visits. We will give you a realistic estimate at your first appointment.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a GP referral to see a physiotherapist in Ireland?
No. You can book directly with a physiotherapist. Some insurance plans or tax relief claims have their own requirements, so check your policy.
Can I claim physiotherapy on my health insurance?
Many plans with VHI, Laya Healthcare and Irish Life Health include physiotherapy cover. Depending on your plan you may be able to claim back up to 75% of each session. Check your policy for your exact entitlement.
What should I bring to my first appointment?
Comfortable clothing, any scan or X-ray reports, a list of medications, and your health insurance details if you plan to claim.
Can I get tax relief on physiotherapy?
Revenue allows tax relief on some health expenses, including physiotherapy when a practitioner such as your GP has prescribed, referred or advised it. Check Revenue’s health expenses guidance to see if your treatment qualifies.
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Get expert help
Not improving, or want a plan built around your goals? Book an assessment at our Dublin 2 clinic or online from anywhere.
General information only; it does not replace an individual assessment.
References
- CORU. Physiotherapists Registration Board: register and code of professional conduct and ethics. coru.ie.
- Revenue. Health expenses: what expenses qualify for tax relief. revenue.ie.
- Health Insurance Authority. Guide to health insurance in Ireland. hia.ie.