Chris’s Surgery Now Experience

After spending two and a half years waiting for treatment through the public system, Chris from Co. Galway decided to explore another option through the European Cross Border Directive Scheme. Suffering with ongoing knee problems caused by years of intense sport, he needed a knee surgery and the draining of a Baker’s cyst, but like many patients in Ireland, he found himself stuck on a long waiting list with no clear timeline.

Everything changed after being made aware of Surgery Now through his local hospital.

“I was made aware of Surgery Now by my local hospital in Co. Galway after being on the waiting list for 2.5 years in the public service with the HSE.”

After qualifying for the European Cross Border Scheme, Chris contacted Surgery Now and quickly began organising his treatment in Spain.

“I qualified for the Government cross border scheme and made contact with this clinic as recommended by the Hospital. I had a video call with the surgeon and the admin staff to go over everything that was required in terms of paperwork (Minimal) and getting a date booked in for surgery.”

For Chris, one of the biggest differences was the speed, communication, and support he received from the very beginning.

“The staff at Surgery Now are very friendly and professional, and all questions answered in a very timely fashion, almost to the day thanks to Hally, Scott, Hugo and Leanne.”

Once flights were booked, everything moved quickly.

“I booked my flights to Alicante on a Sunday, had a pre-op surgery consultation on a Monday morning, the surgery took place on the Tuesday.”

Following surgery, Chris spent one night in hospital before recovering in the comfort of the AJ Hotel in Gran Alacant, where many Irish patients stay during their recovery period.

“I only spent one night in the hospital, and the remaining days were spent recovering in the very comfy AJ hotel.”

What stood out most was how quickly his recovery progressed.

“I was up and walking the day after the surgery; I needed crutches for only half a day after that.”

By the end of the week, Chris was already enjoying parts of Spain again.

“By the end of the week, I was able to attend a La Liga match in Madrid while walking with a slight limp.”

Throughout the trip, Chris felt supported every step of the way.

What Made the Experience Stand Out

“Chauffeured everywhere from airport pick-ups to clinics and hospital drop-offs.”

“The professionalism of the staff.”

“The hotel is very nice, warm and friendly.”

“Spending recovery in the sunshine with sport on the TV’s in the local bars.”

“The area you are in has everything you need for the week. Mercado Central has a supermarket, Farmacia, hairdressers, cafe etc.”

“Travelling with some other Irish folk was comforting also.”

Chris also appreciated the ongoing support after surgery, particularly with follow-up care and assistance with European Cross Border Directive paperwork and reimbursement.

“The clinic has promised to follow up calls to monitor my recovery and send all relevant documentation to both the HSE and my GP.”

After years of waiting in pain, Chris finally received the treatment he needed, with the reassurance of continued support throughout his rehabilitation.

“Thanks a mil to the entire team at Surgery Now and hopefully my knee will be problem free herein. I fully believe I will get the support to fully rehabilitate from Surgery Now and the process of getting the refund back from the HSE will be fully supported by the Clinic also.”

At Surgery Now, we understand how physically and emotionally draining long waiting lists can be. Chris’s story reflects what so many Irish patients experience when they choose the European Cross Border Directive, faster access to treatment, expert care, clear communication, and support throughout the entire journey.

From helping patients organise paperwork and consultations to providing guidance before, during, and after surgery, our team is committed to making the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.

We thank Chris for sharing his experience and wish him continued success with his recovery and rehabilitation.