What a medical card covers

What a medical card covers

If you have a medical card you don't have to pay to see your doctor, or for medicines they prescribe.

A medical card also covers:

• public out-patient and in-patient services
• eye and ear tests
• dental checks

Check if you can apply

Anyone who is ‘ordinarily resident’ in the Republic of Ireland can apply for a medical card or GP visit card. This includes families, single people, even those working full or part-time. ‘Ordinarily resident’ means that you are living here and intend to live here for at least one year.

Check if you might be eligible

Being eligible for a medical card depends on your circumstances. If you do not automatically qualify for a medical card, we will carry out an assessment.

You will need to provide information about your:

• income
• expenses
• marital status
• dependants

People who automatically qualify

You may automatically qualify for a medical card if you:

• are participating in certain government schemes
• have been affected by the drug Thalidomide
• have had a surgical Symphysiotomy
• are a child diagnosed with cancer within the last 5 years
• are in foster care
• live in direct provision
• qualify under EU Regulations

For any of these, you will not be subject to a financial assessment, but you will still need to apply.

Read about the Redress Scheme for Women Resident in Certain Institutions.