About Our Service
The Maternity and Infant Care Scheme provides an agreed programme of care to all expectant mothers who are ordinarily resident in Ireland. This service is provided by a family doctor (GP) of your choice and a hospital obstetrician.
You are entitled to this service even if you do not have a medical card. Virtually all GPs have agreements with the Health Service Executive to provide these services; they do not have to be part of the GPs and medical cards system. The Scheme also provides for two post-natal visits to the general practitioner.
The Public Health Nurse
The public health nurse will also visit the mother and baby at home during the first six weeks and this service is free of charge.
If the baby is born in a hospital, it is usual to carry out screening for metabolic disorders (the Guthrie or heel-prick test). If the baby is born at home, the test may be carried out by the GP or in the Out-Patients Department of a hospital. This test requires parental consent.
FAQs
-
The combined medical services are provided by your family doctor (GP) and a hospital obstetrician.
-
On your first pregnancy, the GP provides an initial examination, if possible before 12 weeks, and a further 5 examinations during the pregnancy, which are alternated with visits to the maternity unit/hospital. The schedule of visits may be changed by your GP and/or hospital obstetrician, depending on your individual situation.
For subsequent pregnancies, you will have an initial examination and a further 6 examinations.
If you have a significant illness, e.g. diabetes or hypertension, you may have up to 5 additional visits to the GP. Care for other illnesses, which you may have at this time, but which are not related to your pregnancy, is not covered by the Scheme.
-
After the birth, the GP will examine the baby at 2 weeks and both mother and baby at 6 weeks.
Mothers are entitled to free in-patient and out-patient public hospital services in respect of the pregnancy and the birth and are not liable for any of the standard in-patient hospital charges.
-
The GP who attends the mother also provides care for the new-born baby; they will provide two developmental examinations free of charge at 2 weeks and 6 weeks following the birth.
The baby's entitlement to other free GP services depends on whether they have a medical card. This means that visits to the GP for any conditions related to the baby's health during this six-week period, or afterwards, are not covered by the scheme unless the baby itself has a medical card.
If you have a medical card for yourself, you should apply for one for your baby as soon as you get the baby's PPS number. You can do this by phone to your Local Health Office.
-
Your GP should have application forms for the Maternity and Infant Care Scheme, which you and your GP complete together. This form is then returned to your Local Health Office.
You should contact the public health nurse at your local health centre to enquire about antenatal classes.
Parent Education Videos & Classes
-
![]()
Parent Education - Labour & Birth
Every woman’s labour is different and it can be difficult to know when labour has actually started. While some experience a sudden onset, most have a gradual lead-in.
-
![]()
Parent Education - Pregnancy
Pregnancy is a time which brings many changes to a woman’s body and it is important that you are aware of what to expect and what you can do to help yourself during this time.
-
![]()
Parent Education - Parenting
Having a baby is an incredibly precious time of a woman’s life and although there can be challenges along the way, it is a whole new chapter in your life.
-
![]()
Parent Education - Classes
The Coombe Hospital offers free online and in-person antenatal classes, including birth preparation, hypnobirthing, breastfeeding, and VBAC
-
![]()
Parent Education - Class Dates
Stay informed on best practices for you and your baby. Find out where the latest Coombe Parent Education Online and In Person Classes are happening here.
Choose The Right Care For You
Our clinics offer tailored care for every stage of a woman’s life, from family planning and maternity to menopause and beyond. Whether you choose Public, Semi-Private, or Private services, we are here to provide expert, compassionate care that supports your health and well-being every step of the way.
Public Clinic
If you are living and working in Ireland and have the PRSI contributions or you have a medical card you can access free maternity and newborn care.
Semi Private Clinic
The semi-private clinic is a fee based option. Most women who choose this clinic use private health insurance to cover costs. .
Private Clinic
There are a number of consultant obstetricians offering services through our private clinic. Antenatal care fees vary between consultants..
Patient Experience
Every patient’s path to diagnosis and treatment is individual. No matter your specific journey, we believe in empowering you to take an active role in your healthcare.
Departments & Services
Help & Support
-
Appointments:
All appointments can be directed through Hospital reception: 01 408 5200, 24 hours a day -
Health Insurance:
We operate a direct payment scheme with VHI, Laya Healthcare, Irish Life Health, Garda Medical Aid, ESB, Medical Provident Fund, and Prison Officers Medical Aid. If you are covered by any of these insurers, the relevant insurance forms are signed electronically on your admission to hospital.
Fees:
For more information on Fees - visit our Hospital Charges page -
-
The Resource Page:
Browse our collection of patient resources, brochures, and information leaflets—all in one place. Downloadable and easy to access, these documents cover everything from appointments and procedures to maternity, newborn care, and more.
Contact Us
Tel: 01 408 5200
Find Us
The Coombe Hospital
Switchboard:
Location:
Cork St, Dublin, D08 XW7X