The health care system is structured to ensure that a high quality health care system is available to people based on need rather than ability to pay. This commitment to the principle of equity was reinforced in the national health strategy, Shaping a Healthier Future. In the context of this underlying principle of equity, it is considered that public funds can be utilised to best effect where those who have the means to do so fund their own care or contribute to the cost of that care.
I am aware of the benefit which contact with the general practitioner can offer in terms of health promotion and disease prevention. Any person with a medical card is, of course, entitled to visit their GP at any time they feel it is necessary.