Free GP care for children under 8 years old and expansion of DVC scheme

The government announced in 2023 the expansion of free GP care to all children under the age of 8 and to households earning below the new median income threshold.

Eligible current practice patients can apply as follows:

• If your child is aged 6 or 7, you can apply online for a Doctor Visit Card from 11th August 2023.

• Important: If your child / children holds a valid card for the Under 6 GP Visit Card scheme already, this card will remain valid until their 8th birthday. You do not need to reapply.

• If your household earns below the median income (€47,000 per year after deductibles) you can apply online for a Doctor Visit Card (DVC). The extension of free GP care on income grounds will take place in two phases, on September 11th and November 13th.

https://www2.hse.ie/services/schemes-allowances/gp-visit-cards/gp-visit-cards/

https://www.sspcrs.ie/portal/free-gp-care-web/pub

https://www2.hse.ie/services/schemes-allowances/gp-visit-cards/gp-visit-card-8-to-69/

For all new GMS/ DVC applications to Dr Ruth Macauley GMS 54448