HSE opens registration for free GP Care for children aged 6 and 7

HSE is encouraging parents and guardians to register online for free GP Care for children aged 6 and 7 for the first time from Friday, August 11.

Shaun Flanagan, HSE Assistant National Director, Primary Care Reimbursement Service said: “Our staff have been working hard in the background preparing for this change. We have updated our systems and processes to make it as easy as possible for people to apply for the new GP Visit Cards on behalf of eligible children. Remember the quickest and easiest way to apply for a GP visit card for your child is online.” 

Children under 6 years of age have been eligible for GP Visit Cards since 2015. The measure extending eligibility to children aged 6 and  7 was announced recently by the Government, and is supported by an agreement with the Irish Medical Organisation signed in July 2023, which put in place a series of supports to allow GPs to meet the likely increase in demand for services.

GP Visit Cards permit the holders to access GP care without charges. If you have a GP visit card, you don't have to pay to see your doctor. You will have to pay for medicines and other services.

In addition, eligibility for income based means tested GP Visit Cards is being widened in two phases, commencing next month. The first phase is being introduced on September 11, and the second phase commences on November 13.

Register online for a GP Visit Card for your 6 or 7 year old via hse.ie/gpvisitcards.