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......Study tips and inspirationInterested in a healthcare career in Ireland?
Interested in a healthcare career in Ireland?

 

Are you a doctor, nurse or midwife looking for a career in Ireland?  

The Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland (NMBI) started accepting OET Test results on January 2nd and the Irish Medical Board (IMB) on February 8th 2024, and since then there has been a lot of interest from candidates keen to start a new health career in the country. 

 

The Irish healthcare system 

In 2005, a new healthcare system in Ireland called the Health Service Executive launched. HSE oversees hospitals and health centres within the country. Access to healthcare services is generally via a patient’s chosen GP. 

The public health system provides services for free or at a subsidy from the government. Those who have a Medical card, which includes those on a low income wage, pregnant women and children under 6, all receive free healthcare services while everyone else will pay between €40-70 for a visit to the doctor. 

Some residents purchase private healthcare insurance to ensure they receive immediate medical treatment at the hospital and with the consultant of their choice. 

 

Registering as a healthcare professional 

To work as a healthcare professional in Ireland, you will need to register with your appropriate healthcare board, for example: 

Dental Council of Ireland  

Veterinary Council of Ireland  

The Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland 

CORU 

 

For nurses and midwives, the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland require the following OET Test scores:   

  • OET (Nursing) with Grade B in three components of the OET Test and C+ in one component (for example, Listening B/350, Reading B/350, Writing C+/300 and Speaking B/350).  
  • The results must be achieved within the last 2 years and from the same test sitting. 

 

For Doctors, the Medical Council of Ireland require the following OET Test scores: 

  • 4 B grades (Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening) 
  • The results must be achieved within the last 2 years and from the same test sitting. 

 

Did you know...? 

The OET Test is also now accepted by a number of other healthcare regulators in Ireland, so if your profession is listed below, you can also take the OET Test to register: 

  • dentist 
  • vet 
  • pharmacist 
  • dietitian 
  • occupational therapist 
  • physiotherapist 
  • radiographer 
  • speech therapist 
  • optometrist 

 

Find out more about who recognises the OET Test in Ireland.

 

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