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The HSE is encouraging all those who may be eligible to apply online via hse.ie/gpvisitcards following the announcement by Minster for Health Stephen Donnelly TD.

Encouraging those eligible to apply for a card Shaun Flanagan, HSE Assistant National Director, Primary Care Reimbursement Service said: 

“The HSE would encourage all those who think they may be eligible to apply. It’s important to remember that you could quality even if the amount of money you earn is high and if your expenses are also high. Your application will be means tested and you will be asked to self-declare your income and allowable outgoings.

When you apply, you should have you PPSN number, income and expense details, marital status, DOB (date of birth) and details on any children dependent on you to make it easier for you. Remember the quickest and easiest way to apply for a GP visit card is online.

GP visit cards allow the holders to access GP care without charges. If you have a GP visit card, you don’t have to pay to see your doctor, but you will have to pay for medicines and other services.”

People can apply for a GP visit card if they are age 8 to 69, live in the Republic of Ireland or plan to live here for at least a year, and will be income tested. This means we look at a person’s income, personal circumstances and expenses to see if they qualify.

The HSE operates random and targeted control processes to ensure that only those who qualify receive means tested GP visit cards. You may be asked to produce supporting documentation to process your application.

Notes:

How the HSE work out if you qualify

To work out if you qualify for a GP visit card the HSE look at your:

• income
• personal circumstances, such as if you are married, your living situation and if you have any children dependent on your circumstances
• certain expenses
• if your income after expenses is below a certain financial threshold for your family size

How the HSE calculate your financial threshold

To get a GP visit card your net weekly income, after your expenses, must be below a qualifying financial threshold.

This qualifying financial threshold is unique to you.

They calculate it by adding the following 3 amounts:

• a basic rate – an amount of money depending on your circumstances
• an amount for each dependant
• your allowable expenses

The total is known as your weekly qualifying financial threshold.

You will qualify for a GP visit card if your net weekly income is less than this amount. Net income is your weekly income after tax, PRSI and USC.

Qualifying financial threshold

Basic rate amount + amount for dependants + allowable expenses = amount you can earn a week and qualify for a card.