Hundreds of thousands more people will qualify for free GP care following Budget 2023.
Currently, children aged under six and those over 70 qualify for scheme - but this will be expanded significantly in the coming months. Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly has called the expansion of the scheme "a gamechanger" and said that Budget 2023 marks the "highest allocation of funding to the health service in the history of the state".
Other health measures announced in Budget 2023 include the scrapping of hospital inpatient fees, expanding the free contraception scheme to women aged 30 and under and the provision of IVF services.
Read more: Budget 2023: Thousands more now eligible for fuel allowance as payment hiked by hundreds
Minister Donnelly said that the expansion of the GP visit card scheme will see half a million more people become eligible. Here's everything you need to know:
Who is eligible?
Currently, children under six, people over 70 and those who get Carer's Benefit or Carer's Allowance at half or full rate qualify. Under Budget 2023, the GP visits card scheme will be expanded to cover all children aged six and seven, as well as people who earn the median household income of €46,000 or less. The figure is net household income, after tax.
When are the cards being issued?
By the end of 2022, children aged six and seven will have received their GP visit card. From April 1, 2023, the scheme will be expanded to those with a net median household income of €46,000 or less.
What does the scheme cover?
A GP visit card allows you to visit a participating GP for free, including out of hours services. Blood tests to diagnose or monitor a condition are covered.
The card does not cover hospital charges or prescribed drugs.
How can those who qualify under Budget 2023 apply?
More information on how those who qualify under Budget 2023 can get their free GP visit card will be released in the coming months. Citizens Information says: "These changes require legislation. This page will be updated as more detail becomes available."
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