Only 12% take up free GP visit cards despite Government expansion, HSE data shows

In August 2023, the department of health announced what it called “'the biggest expansion in eligibility for free GP care in the history of the State'.

Just 12% of the 430,000 people eligible for the Government's free GP visit cards have taken them up, leading to calls from doctors for the application process to be revamped.

GP Visit cards save the cost of a GP appointment which can be as much as €70. They also give free access to care for conditions such as asthma, Type 2 diabetes, and heart care.