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Ireland is now ranked as having the 15th most consumer-friendly healthcare system in Europe, up one place on last year, according to a new study.

The 2008 Euro Health Consumer Index (EHCI), which was launched today in Brussels, shows the Netherlands leading the ranking of 31 countries with a score of 839 points out of a possible 1,000. It is followed by Denmark, Austria, Luxemburg and Sweden.

In six categories, covering 34 performance indicators, Ireland scored 643 points out of a possible 1,000, placing it at 15th in the rankings. These six categories cover waiting times for treatment, e-health, outcomes, patient’s rights and information and the range and reach of services.

In 2006, there was public outcry when Ireland was ranked 25th out of 26th states for its healthcare system in the index.