Glossary

Shortfall

It is the difference between the full price and that which your insurer covers. It is the amount the policy holder is liable to pay. A Shortfall is normally applied on a per night or per procedure basis. Please call us on 01 885 8856 (Dublin) or 021 601 3267 (Cork) to confirm any shortfall.

Policy excess

It is the amount of money that you pay towards your hospital bills before you can claim back from your insurer. This is a once off payment that is normally applied on a per admission basis or a nightly basis for select plans. Please call us on 01 885 8856 (Dublin) or 021 601 3267 (Cork) to confirm any policy excess.

Waiting period

This is the period of time imposed by your insurance company during which you may have limited or no cover. The timeframe of the waiting period will depend on the type of waiting period applied to your policy. We strongly recommend that you confirm this information with your insurance provider prior to attending in order to avoid any unexpected costs relating to your care.

Direct Settlement

If your private health insurance plan includes direct settlement, you will not be required to pay for your test, treatment or procedure yourself; your insurer will pay Mater Private on your behalf.

When you attend Mater Private you will be asked to sign an insurance form. This should be signed by you so the hospital can send your bill directly to your insurance provider. If you do not wish to sign this form for direct settlement, you will be required to prepay the amount in full and claim this back from your insurance provider afterwards.

Inpatient

It refers to a patient who is admitted to the hospital stays overnight or for an extended period of time to receive a medical treatment or surgery.

Outpatient/ Daycase / Sideroom

It refers to a patient who receives medical or surgical treatment without being admitted to the hospital and can return home on the same day.