FAQs — My Heart Health

When Does Dr Barrett See Patients?

Dr Barrett's clinic times are Monday Mornings & Afternoons and Thursday Mornings. Not having you wait beyond your allotted appointment time is our priority and we make every effort to have you seen at your scheduled time. Although rare, clinic times can run slightly behind, usually near the end of clinic. If so, you will be made aware of this when you check in so as to keep you informed. Your appointment length depends on the complexity of your condition. You will be made aware of your appointment duration prior to visiting.

Do I Need a Letter From My GP To See Dr Barrett?

It is preferential that patients have a referral letter from their GP or a specialist involved in their care. This is an important step so as to maintain continuity of care and to ensure any relevant medical staff involved in your care are updated of your progress. Patients who have seen Dr Barrett previously do not need a referral letter and may book an appointment directly.

How Much Does It Cost To See Dr Barrett?

The cost of your visit is determined by the complexity of your medical condition and the time it will take to address it. You will be made aware of the cost of the visit in advance. Payment is collected by MedServ the day after the consultation. Debit card, credit card, cheque and cash are accepted. Payment can not be accepted on the day.

Will My Health Insurance Cover The Cost of My Visit?

For those with health insurance, visit payments for out-patient consultations are made by the patient 'up front' and then a portion of that cost is reimbursed to you by your health insurer at the end of your policy year, upon submission of visit receipts. The amount that is paid back to you is dependent on your particular health insurance plan. Additionally, some expenses can be claimed against tax using a Med1 Form. For more precise information please contact your health insurer as specifics vary by plan or use our online tool to assess whether your test is covered by Clicking Here. We are also happy to provide any information needed.

What About Blood Tests & Investigations? Does My Health Insurance Cover These?

Out Patient tests, not requiring admission to the hospital are paid by the patient 'up front' and as with your appointment costs a portion of that expense is usually reimbursed by your health insurer at the end of your policy year, upon submission of individual receipts. The amount that is paid back to you is dependent on your particular health insurance plan. An estimate of the cost of your tests will be provided prior. For more precise information please contact your health insurer as specifics vary by plan. We are also happy to provide any information needed.

In Patient tests such as a coronary angiogram or cardioversion are usually covered by your health insurance plan. This is confirmed with your health insurer prior to your admission for the investigation or treatment.

Are CT & MRI Scans Covered By My Health Insurance?

Typically MRI scans are paid for by your health insurer if it is requested by a consultant. CT scans, including CT Coronary Angiograms are usually paid for up front and a portion is reclaimed at year end on submission of receipts to your insurer.

However, each health insurance plan is different so it is important that this is determined prior to having the scan.

Additionally, some expenses can be claimed against tax using a Med1 Form.

Are There Any Extra Costs When I Visit?

We aim to keep expenses paid by you to a minimum. An estimate of all charges for consultations and medical tests will be provided prior so as nothing is unexpected.

Investigations arranged by your GP elsewhere can be brought to your consultation and may mean that these tests do not have to be paid for at the clinic. Please bear in mind that such investigations can take a long time to arrange and get results from, so please allow an appropriate amount of time prior to your visit. You will need to bring the results of these investigations with you on the day or have your GP send them to Dr Barrett's office in advance.

Can I Claim My Medical Expenses Against My Income Tax?

Yes. Expenses that are not reimbursed by your health insurer can be claimed against your income tax. This is done by completing a Med 1 form and submitting the relevant receipts at the end of the tax year.

Med 1 forms can be downloaded by clicking here or collected from the front desk at the time of your appointment.

I Have A Medical Card. Does That Make A Difference?

Not for any potential expenses incurred at the Blackrock Clinic. However, if you have had investigations performed elsewhere relevant to your visit please bring them with you on the day of your visit.

I Need To Get Test Results From Another Hospital & They Need A Form.

This is common practice in Ireland for the release of medical information. Please Click Here to contact us so as the appropriate form can be sent to you.

My Question Isn't Listed Here

Sorry about that. We would be happy to help. There are a number of ways to get in touch, which are listed below: