Your options today
| Option | Best for | Typical cost |
|---|---|---|
| Your GP (same-day slot) | Most problems, if you are registered | €60–€80 private; free with a medical or GP visit card |
| Online Doctor | Advice, infections, repeat medicines, certificates where appropriate | Around €50 (ViscaCare members €39 during the launch offer) |
| GP out-of-hours co-op | Evenings, nights, weekends | Fee for private patients; free with a medical card |
| Injury unit | Sprains, minor fractures, cuts and burns | Charge applies; check with the unit |
| Emergency department | Serious or life-threatening problems | Statutory charge without a GP referral unless exempt |
Online Doctor
An online Doctor consults by phone or video, can prescribe where clinically appropriate and sends the prescription to a pharmacy. You do not need to be registered with a GP. See how online Doctors work in Ireland.
Pharmacist
For coughs, colds, minor skin problems and similar issues, a community pharmacist can advise you straight away, with no appointment, and tell you if you need a Doctor.
Emergencies
Call 112 or 999
Call for chest pain, difficulty breathing, sudden weakness or slurred speech, heavy bleeding, a severe allergic reaction or loss of consciousness.
Common questions
How can I see a Doctor today in Ireland?
Ring your GP as soon as the practice opens and ask for a same-day appointment. If none is available, book an online Doctor, or use the GP out-of-hours service in the evening and at weekends.
Can I see an online Doctor today?
Often, yes. Online Doctor services frequently have appointments the same day. The Doctor can advise, prescribe where clinically appropriate and tell you if you need to be seen in person.
Is there a walk-in Doctor in Ireland?
Some private clinics take walk-ins for a fee. Injury units take walk-ins for minor injuries. GP out-of-hours services usually need you to phone first.
How much does it cost to see a Doctor today?
Private GP visits commonly cost €60 to €80. A typical online appointment is around €50. Out-of-hours visits are free for medical card holders. A charge applies at emergency departments without a GP referral unless you are exempt.
Should I go to A&E or see a GP?
Go to an emergency department, or call 112 or 999, for chest pain, difficulty breathing, signs of stroke, severe bleeding or serious injury. For most other problems a GP, an online Doctor or an injury unit is faster and more appropriate.
Where these figures come from
- HSE — GP out-of-hours services
- HSE — injury units
- HSE — emergency departments
- Citizens Information — hospital charges
Charges and thresholds change. We check these figures regularly, but always confirm the current rate with the official source before you rely on it. This page explains entitlements, costs and process — it is not medical advice.
Talk to an online Doctor today
ViscaCare members book online Doctor appointments through Health Hero at €39 during the launch offer, against a typical online appointment closer to €50.
Related guides
Online doctor in Ireland
What it costs (typically around €50), what can be prescribed, and how booking works.
Read moreOnline prescriptions in Ireland
What can be prescribed remotely, repeat medication, and what you pay at the pharmacy.
Read moreWhat healthcare costs in Ireland
GP fees, the €100 ED charge, prescription caps and consultant fees.
Read more