Although UPMC SSC is based in Dublin, we’re part of a larger UPMC network that includes Whitfield Hospital in Waterford, Aut Even Hospital in Kilkenny and Clane Hospital in Kildare. Each hospital specialises in different areas, giving patients a range of options depending on their condition and preferred location.

Our clinic is just ten minutes from Dublin Airport, making travel straightforward whether you’re arriving by car, coach or train. Many patients choose the airport coach and take a short taxi ride from the terminal. Connolly Station is around twenty minutes away by taxi, and we offer both surface and underground parking for those who prefer to drive.

If you’ve visited before, you may already have friends or family familiar with the route, which can make planning even easier.

UPMC SSC is recognised as one of Ireland’s leading orthopaedic hospitals, performing more joint replacements than any other private hospital in the country. Our facilities include:

• Seven ultra‑clean air operating theatres dedicated to orthopaedic and spinal surgery
• Three MRI scanners and one CT scanner
• A state‑of‑the‑art physiotherapy and performance rehabilitation centre
• A cutting‑edge 3D biomechanics lab led by expert biomechanists and researchers
• 27 consultant rooms
• 91 inpatient beds and 20 day‑case beds
• 42 orthopaedic surgeons and five neurosurgeons, all on the specialist register

This combination of expertise and technology allows us to assess, diagnose and treat a full range of orthopaedic and sports‑related conditions.

Many patients come to us for hip and knee replacements, including partial and bilateral procedures. We also offer:

• ACL reconstruction
• Knee arthroscopy
• Shoulder replacement and stabilisation
• Spinal surgery (discectomy, decompression, fusion)
• Foot and ankle surgery, including ankle replacement
• Upper limb surgery involving hands, wrists and elbows

If you’re considering bilateral surgery, we’ll ensure you’re matched with a surgeon who performs that specific procedure.

For nearly two decades, we’ve worked closely with hospitals and trusts across Northern Ireland, including Craigavon, Altnagelvin, Musgrave Park and the Royal Victoria. Alongside waiting list initiatives, we’ve supported cross‑border reimbursement schemes for around eight years, giving us extensive experience in helping patients navigate the process.

Our surgeries are offered as package prices that include:

• Pre‑operative appointment
• Pre‑assessment and X‑ray
• Surgery
• Consultation fees
• Anaesthetic fees
• Two post‑operative reviews
• Routine discharge medication (typically three to four weeks)

Medication is collected from a local pharmacy before returning home.

• MRI scans
• Specialist medical clearance (e.g., cardiology, haematology, respiratory)
• Private rooms (available at an additional cost and subject to availability)

If a medical issue is identified during pre‑assessment, you may need clearance from a specialist at home, which can be sent to us directly.

Several of our surgeons also work in Northern Ireland, including specialists in foot and ankle, hip and knee, shoulder and spinal surgery. If you’ve already seen one of them at home, you can continue your care with them in Dublin.

However, reimbursement rules require that all outpatient appointments and surgery take place in Dublin. Appointments in Northern Ireland cannot be included in your claim.

The updated Waiting List Reimbursement Scheme is simpler than before. Key requirements include:

• Proof you’ve been on an NHS waiting list for at least one year
• Confirmation you are a resident of Northern Ireland
• Approval before treatment (no retrospective claims)

Refunds typically cover 60–70% of your costs. Applications are currently processed within four weeks, and reimbursements are issued within six to eight weeks.

The only documentation required is proof of your waiting list status, which can be provided by your GP or hospital.

Click here to download the application form from the HSE

In rare cases where a non‑orthopaedic issue arises, we work closely with Beaumont Hospital and the Mater Hospital. Patients should bring a Global Health Insurance Card, which replaced the EHIC after Brexit, to ensure they’re covered for emergency care.

Extended stays due to medical need are included in your package, and readmissions within six weeks are not charged.

Nearby hotels include:

• The Crowne Plaza (five minutes away)
• The Carlton Hotel at Dublin Airport (around ten minutes away)

We also plan to host information sessions across Northern Ireland, and patients can join our mailing list for updates.

Our discharge nurses support hip and knee patients before they leave and remain available by phone afterwards. They also provide helpful video guides explaining the full surgical journey.

Physiotherapy is essential—particularly after knee or shoulder surgery—so we encourage patients to arrange sessions at home in advance. We’ll ensure you’re safe on stairs and confident with mobility before you leave.

If you think you may need additional support at home, let our nurses know during pre‑assessment. Convalescence or social care cannot be arranged before surgery, but early communication helps avoid delays once you return home.

We aim to schedule your consultant appointment, pre‑assessment and X‑ray on the same day to reduce unnecessary journeys.

Our team is always available to discuss costs, surgeon options and any questions you may have.