HSE letter explained in English
Health service. The Health Service Executive. It runs public hospitals and health services, and medical cards.
Letters you may get
- Appointment letter — date, time and place of a hospital appointment
- Medical card letter — your card was approved, refused or is up for review
- Hospital charges — a bill for a stay in a public hospital
What to do
- If you can’t go to an appointment, tell the hospital as soon as possible.
- Answer medical card review letters on time, or your card can be cancelled.
- Find the deadline. Look for “by”, “within”, “no later than”.
- Write the reference number from the letter on everything you send back, and keep copies.
- If you disagree with a decision, object in writing before the deadline (“review”, “appeal”, “dispute”, “objection”). See the template.
Words you may see
- review
- A new look at a decision, or a check that you still qualify for a payment.
- medical card
- A card from the HSE that gives free GP visits and many health services to people with low income.
Questions
What is the HSE?
Health service. The Health Service Executive. It runs public hospitals and health services, and medical cards.
How long do I have to answer a letter from the HSE?
It depends on the letter. Look for words like “by”, “within”, “no later than” — they mark the deadline. In Ireland, many deadlines count from the date printed on the letter. When a deadline counts from when you received it, Briefly adds about 2 days for post — check the envelope or postmark if you are close to the deadline. To object, the letter usually names the way to do it (“review”, “appeal”, “dispute”, “objection”).
Can I read a HSE letter in English?
Yes. Take a photo of the letter with Briefly. It explains the letter in plain English, finds the deadline and the amount, and gives you ready-made replies in English. Your letter never leaves your device.
Other offices in Ireland
Revenue (Revenue Commissioners) · Department of Social Protection (Intreo) · County or City Council · Courts Service (District / Circuit Court) · Sheriff / Revenue Sheriff · Debt collection agency · An Garda Síochána · Motor Tax / NDLS