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Much of the hospital and community care in Ireland is provided by, or on behalf of, the Health Service Executive (HSE). If you have concerns about care received in a public hospital or HSE service, it helps to understand how these matters are assessed and handled. This page is for information only.
Who handles HSE-related matters
Where a matter involves the HSE or another State or State-funded body, it is typically managed on the State side by the State Claims Agency, which handles personal injury and medical matters on behalf of State authorities. This does not change the underlying legal test — it simply identifies who responds on the State side.
The legal test still applies
As with any medical negligence concern in Ireland, care is assessed against the standard in Dunne v National Maternity Hospital: whether a reasonably competent practitioner of the same specialty would have acted differently. A poor outcome alone does not establish that the standard was not met — independent medical expert evidence is central.
What is involved
The same pathway applies: your medical records are obtained and reviewed, and where appropriate an independent expert gives an opinion on whether the standard of care was met and on causation. A solicitor then advises whether the matter merits further investigation.
Time limits
The usual position is that proceedings must be commenced within two years of the act complained of, or of the date of knowledge. Acting early is sensible because gathering records and expert evidence takes time.
How we can help
A confidential consultation with a solicitor of your choice to discuss your concerns, a records request and review, and a preliminary assessment of whether the matter merits further investigation. Engagement and fees are agreed in writing before any further work.
Read our guide to a confidential consultation with a solicitor of your choice or call 085 804 1664.
Frequently asked questions
Who handles medical negligence matters involving the HSE?
Matters involving the HSE or other State bodies are typically managed on the State side by the State Claims Agency. The underlying legal test for the standard of care is the same as in any medical negligence matter.
Is the legal test different for a public hospital?
No. Care is assessed against the same standard — that of a reasonably competent practitioner in the same specialty (the Dunne test) — whether the care was public or private. Independent expert evidence is central.
What is the time limit for a HSE-related concern?
Generally two years from the act complained of or from the date of knowledge, whichever is later. Specific dates depend on the circumstances and should be confirmed by a solicitor.