Press Statement Dept. of Health, Ireland
As of today, Tuesday 18th August over 160,000 Under 6s have registered for GP Care. 92% of GPs have agreed to provide the new, enhanced service, which for Under 6s includes assessments focused on health and wellbeing and the prevention of disease when a child is aged 2 and again at age 5 and an agreed cycle of care for children diagnosed with asthma.
Minister Varadkar said: “I’m still very encouraged by the numbers to date. However, I am encouraging and reminding those who haven’t yet done so to register. It means there will be no hassle or bureaucracy for you when you or your child is sick and needs to see your GP. 9 out of 10 GPs have agreed to this new, improved and better funded GP service for children.
Those GPs not participating can still do so by returning the signed contract to the HSE’s National Contracts Office.’ Minister Lynch said: ‘the second step to universal healthcare commenced on
August 5th, all 400,000 people aged 70 and over will be able to see their GP without paying fees. It’s an important step because, for the first time, the eldest and youngest in our society will be able to access GP care without being charged. To date over 23,000 people over 70s have
signed up to see their GP without paying fees’.
All persons aged 70 or older will be able to access a GP service without charges, replacing the existing GP service arrangement for this age group which is based on a means-test. Their dependents, including spouses or partners, who are under the age of 70 will continue to have access to a GP service without fees where they meet the existing income limits. Please note that persons Over 70 who already hold a medical or GP visit card do not need to register.
If anyone needs help or guidance they can contact the helpline 1890 252 919 (weekdays 8am-8pm)
A simple online registration system is available on www.gpvisitcard.ie.
Alternatively people can download a form from the website www.gpvisitcard.ie, or
lo-call 1890 252 919 to receive a copy by post.
The registration form will also be available in pharmacies and local health offices.
For more contact:
Press and Communications Office, Department of Health| (+353) 1 635 4477|
www.health.gov.ie| Twitter @roinnslainte