Free GP Care For Kids 6 & 7

Air retention…

atest press release from the HSE, issued on Friday, August 11th 2023…

Families and guardians can register online for free GP Care for children aged 6 and 7 for the first time from today, Friday 11^th August 2023.

The HSE is encouraging families and guardians to make online applications for a GP Visit Card for all children in this age group from today via the HSE website here.

“Our staff have been working hard in the background preparing for this change. We have updated our systems and processes to make it as easy as possible for people to apply for the new GP Visit Cards on behalf of eligible children. Remember the quickest and easiest way to apply for a GP visit card for your child is online,” said Shaun Flanagan, HSE Assistant National Director, Primary Care Reimbursement Service.

Children under 6 years of age have been eligible for GP Visit Cards since 2015. The measure extending eligibility to children aged 6 & 7 was announced recently by Government, and is supported by an agreement with the Irish Medical Organisation signed in July 2023, which put in place a series of supports to allow GPs to meet the likely increase in demand for services.

GP Visit Cards permit 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. You will have to pay for medicines and other services.

In addition, eligibility for income based means tested GP Visit Cards is being widened in two phases, commencing next month. The first phase is being introduced on Monday 11th September, and the second phase commences on Monday, 13th November next.

You can register online for a GP Visit Card for your 6 or 7 year old right here.