Mixed reaction to plans for ‘doctor visit’ medical card

PLANS for a new “doctor visit” medical card have been welcomed by patients’ representatives and GPs, but criticised by the opposition as having “limited benefit”.

The new card will allow people whose income is 25% above the qualifying limit for a medical card to visit their family doctor free of charge. It will also give them access through their GP to a range of medical services in a public hospital at no extra cost. The Government claims this will result in an extra 200,000 people becoming eligible for free doctor visits.

Outlining the measures yesterday, Tánaiste and Health Minister Mary Harney said the move was designed to rid parents on low incomes of the worry of not being able to afford to bring their child to the doctor. “The Government believes people should not be discouraged from visiting their GP, or especially from bringing their children to the GP, because of cost.”