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Why are some services not covered?

The services covered under the Medical/GP Visit Card are set nationally by the HSE and the Department of Health. The Irish Medical Organisation (IMO)—our professional representative body and trade union — summarises the services not covered by the national agreement between GPs and the State. These same rules apply to all GP practices across Ireland. Please see the following link https://www.imo.ie/i-am-a/gp/member-advisory-services/Notice-about-Medical-Card-FINAL-new-(HR).pdf

What types of services are not covered?

The following are the most commonly requested services that fall outside the Medical Card/GP Visit Card scheme:

• Minor surgery

• Routine blood tests (Phlebotomy)

• Warfarin monitoring

• Women's and Men's Health clinics

• Wound dressings

• Travel vaccinations

• Pre-employment medicals

• Insurance medicals and reports

• Medical examinations for legal purposes

• Sports medicals and reports

• Fitness-to-drive medicals

• Passport or identity reports

• Crèche/school notes or certificates

• Letters or certificates for social welfare applications

• Utility reports or letters

• Preventative health checks or screening services

• Therapeutic counselling

 

If you're unsure whether a service is covered, just ask our team—we're always happy to clarify.

Why might there be a charge?

Because these services are not funded by the HSE, your GP practice receives no payment for providing the extra staff and materials required to undertake these services under the Medical/GP Visit Card scheme. This is why a private fee may apply.

What if I need help or have concerns?

If you are unsure, need support, or want to discuss your options, our team are happy to help.  

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