El Salvador
In
The United Kingdom and Ireland

The health services in Ireland are centrally directed by the "Department of Health and Children". At local level, the health services are operated by seven regional health boards and one regional health authority. The participation of voluntary bodies in the provision of services is encouraged and many voluntary organisations receive grants from the State. The health services are financed out of central taxation.

Those with low incomes and persons aged 70 years and over receive medical services free of charge. The rest of the population can avail of the public hospital services at a low charge. They also have to pay certain charges, such as for visits to the family doctor. Patients in public hospitals may opt to be treated privately. There are a number of private hospitals, (approximately 14 per cent of the total), which essentially serve private patients. There is a system of health insurance to help meet the costs of medical treatment.