If you are a survivor of residential institutional abuse, you can apply for a particular type of medical card.
People with this type of medical card can:
- use a range of HSE health services for free
- get more benefits than people with the standard medical card
- be assured they have it for life and that it will not be means tested
This medical card looks the exact same as a standard medical card. It has no special text or logos on it.
Free health services you can get with the medical card for survivors of residential institutional abuse
With this type of medical card, you can get free:
- GP (doctor) medical and surgical care
- prescribed medicines and approved medical aids and appliances
- nursing services
- home support services, if you're assessed as needing this
- counselling related to experiences in residential institutions
- chiropody services, when referred by a doctor or nurse
- physiotherapy services, when referred by a doctor
- access to a health liaison officer
- prescriptions - no prescription charges for the person named on the card
You can also get some dental services, eye care and hearing services for free.
Who can apply
You can apply for this medical card if you:
- have received an award of redress from the Residential Institutions Redress Board or a similar court award or settlement
- have a PPSN and an address in Ireland
- are registered with a GP in Ireland
You cannot apply for this medical card if you live outside Ireland. But survivors of residential institutional abuse who live outside Ireland may qualify for a one-off health support payment of €3,000.
You should apply for this type of medical card if you already have a standard medical card. It offers you more benefits.
How to apply
- Complete the Confirmation of Eligibility form (PDF, 201 KB, 2 pages)
- Send it to the Department of Education and Youth by email or post.
Email: survivorsupports@education.gov.ie
Post: Survivor Supports, Department of Education and Youth, Cornamaddy, Athlone, Westmeath, N37 X659
If you have any questions about your application, phone the Department of Education and Youth on 090 648 3625.
After you apply
If your application is approved, the HSE will post your medical card to you.
We will automatically renew it every 10 years and send you a replacement card.
More information
Supports for survivors of residential institutional abuse - gov.ie