DRUGS PAYMENT SCHEME (DPS):

Under the Drugs Payment Scheme, an individual or family in Ireland should not pay more than €144 each month for approved prescribed medicines for that person and his or her family. This is not means tested and everyone is entitled to a DPS card.  Application forms are available instore.

MEDICAL CARD:

Medical Card holders are entitled to prescription medicines, hospital care and a range of other benefits free of charge or at a lower cost than normal.

Most people who get a Medical Card do so because their income is below a certain level.

From December 1st 2013, prescription charges for Medical Card holders are now €2.50 per item – capped at a maximum of €25.00 per month per family.

GP VISIT CARDS:

GP Visit Card holders can visit their family doctor for free. You must pay for prescribed drugs, medicines and other health services similar to others who don’t have a Medical Card. However, you are entitled to a Drugs Payment Scheme Card if you don’t already have one.

FREE GP CARE FOR CHILDREN UNDER 6:

With the GP Visit card under 6’s  your child will get free GP visits, assessments at age 2 and  5 & care for children with asthma. For more info see www.gpvisitcard.ie

EUROPEAN HEALTH INSURANCE CARD:

The European Health Insurance Card or EHIC (formerly the E111 form) allows the holder to access health care services when travelling to or on holiday in another EU or EEA country.

Anyone who is living in Ireland or intends to live here for a year can apply for an EHIC.