What is a GP visit card?
If you are not eligible for a medical card you may be eligible for a GP visit card. A GP visit card allows you to visit a participating family doctor (GP) for free.
The GP visit card does not cover hospital charges. The GP visit card does cover visits to GP out of hours services. Blood tests to diagnose or monitor a condition are covered.
Prescribed drugs are not free but may be covered by the Drugs Payment Scheme (DPS). SII service users may also be entitled to certain listed items not covered by the drugs payment scheme under the “12-Item Medical list”.
In order to qualify for a GP visit card, you must meet the eligibility rules and be ordinarily resident in Ireland. Please visit CIS – Entitlement to public health services overview for more details.
If you get Carer’s Benefit or Carer’s Allowance, at full or half-rate, you are eligible for a GP visit card.
Aged over 70 – The GP visit card is available to everyone aged over 70 without an income test.
Aged under 70 – If you are aged under 70, eligibility for the GP visit card is means tested. That is, your income is assessed by the HSE as part of the application process.
Income limits for people aged under 70
The rules for assessing the amount of your income are the same as for the medical card means test for people aged under 70 but the income limits for the GP visit card are higher than the limits for the medical card. Further information here.
How do I apply for a GP visit card?
Applying online is the quickest way to have your application processed.
Aged under 70 – you can apply online for a GP visit card on medicalcard.ie.
Alternatively, you can download an application form for the GP visit card and medical card (pdf).
Aged over 70 – you can apply online for a GP visit card on gpvisitcard.ie,
Alternatively, you can download the registration form for people aged 70 and over (pdf)
You can also get the application form and a list of participating GPs from your local health centre or the Local Health Office for your area or Lo-call 1890 252 919.
If you are refused a GP visit card, the process of appeal will be outlined in the refusal letter. If you are not happy with the outcome of the assessment, it is very important to begin the process of appeal quickly.
Get in touch now if you would like more information.
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