Irish residents who qualify to receive a Medical Card are entitled to a range of health services free of charge. This includes GP visits, prescribed medicines, hospital visits, and a range of other services and benefits.
Most people who qualify for this scheme do so as their income is below a certain level. You may also qualify if the cost of maintaining your health puts you at financial risk, or if you are entitled to it under EU Regulations.
Visit your local Health Office for more information or to apply, or visit
http://www.hse.ie/eng/Find_a_Service/entitlements/Medical_Cards/Medical_Cards.html
Medical Cards for those over 70 year of age
There have been significant changes to the eligibility of those over 70 years of age for the Medical Card. From January 2009, all those over 70 who wish to apply for this scheme are subject to a means test. Those who have a weekly gross income of less than €700 (€1400 for a couple) will qualify for the scheme. Special consideration will be made for those with high medical expenses who have incomes higher than the normal limits.
For more information you can contact your local Health Office, or phone the HSE infoline on 1850 24 1850. A comprehensive list of information surrounding this area is available at http://www.hse.ie/eng/Find_a_Service/entitlements/Medical_Cards/70medicalcard.html