Minister Urges Irish Families to Check Eligibility for Free GP Visit Cards
Free GP visits could save Cork families hundreds of euros yearly - check if you qualify at GPVisitCard.ie.
Health Minister Jennifer Carroll MacNeill TD is encouraging the public to apply for GP Visit Cards, with over 750,000 people already benefiting from free GP consultations and potential annual savings of up to €600 for families.
The Minister for Health has today called on Irish families to consider applying for a GP Visit Card, highlighting that many may be eligible without realising it. The scheme, which currently supports over 750,000 cardholders across Ireland, removes financial barriers to essential healthcare by providing free GP consultations.
As of 1st August 2025, the substantial uptake demonstrates the scheme's importance in ensuring healthcare access. Eligibility is determined by the Health Service Executive based on income, personal circumstances, and expenses, with some high earners potentially qualifying if their outgoings are correspondingly significant.
Recent data from the Healthy Ireland Survey 2024 reveals the average person makes over three private GP visits annually. This translates to considerable potential savings: approximately €600 yearly for a family of four, €300 for couples, and €200 for individuals.
Minister Carroll MacNeill said:
"Good health begins with good access. We know that the cost of GP consultations can sometimes discourage people from seeking help when they need it. For those eligible for a GP Visit Card, it removes this obstacle and helps support individuals and families in managing their health."
The scheme operates on different criteria depending on age. Children under eight and adults aged 70 or over receive automatic eligibility, whilst those aged eight to 69 undergo means testing that considers income, circumstances, and expenses.
Minister Carroll MacNeill added:
"I'd particularly like to encourage students and parents whose children are pursuing third level education to have a conversation about applying for a GP Visit Card. Eligibility is determined based on the individual income of the applicant, and some students may not be aware that they qualify."
The application process has been designed for accessibility and can be completed entirely online. For Cork families managing rising living costs, the scheme could provide significant financial relief whilst ensuring continued access to primary healthcare.
Worked examples from the HSE demonstrate the scheme's broad reach. A single person renting could qualify with weekly net income up to €768, whilst a couple with two children and a mortgage might be eligible with combined weekly income up to €1,021.
Applications and detailed eligibility information are available at GPVisitCard.ie, where prospective applicants can review criteria specific to their circumstances.