Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 17 November 2022
283. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Health if he will provide an update on Budget 2023, which announced that free GP visit cards would be extended to children aged six and seven years of age by the end of 2022; if GP visit cards will be extended to this cohort of children by the end of 2022; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [57065/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs announced, Budget 2023 will increase the eligibility of people for General Practice (GP) access cards.
My officials and the HSE have made preparations for the expansion of GP care without charges to all children aged 6 and 7 and engagements with the IMO, representing GPs, are ongoing with the intention of introducing the service this year.
Furthermore, from 1 April 2023, eligibility will be extended to people who earn the median household income of €46,000 or less. It will be adjusted for people living alone and for those with children; further operational details will be made available prior to the commencement of the income-based expansion. It is envisaged that these measures will be supported by a significant package of additional capacity supports to GP practices.
