Richard Bruton (Dublin Bay North, Fine Gael)
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676. To ask the Minister for Health if he will consider arrangements for prolonging a general practitioner card cover after a person ceases acting as a carer. [6143/22]

Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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Since 1st September 2018, persons in receipt of a Carer's Allowance (full or half rate) or a Carer's Benefit can apply for a GP Visit Card without the requirement of a financial assessment. In circumstances where the HSE is advised that a person is no longer in receipt of either Carer's Allowance (full or half rate) or Carer's Benefit, the HSE will advise the person that they will continue to hold eligibility for a further three months. Thereafter, they may apply for a medical card or GP visit card based on a financial assessment.

In accordance with the provisions of the Health Act 1970 (as amended), eligibility for a medical card and GP visit card is determined by the HSE. The Act obliges the HSE to assess whether a person is unable, without undue hardship, to arrange general practitioner services for himself or herself and his or her family, having regard to his or her overall financial position and reasonable expenditure. Further information on eligibility criteria and how to apply for a medical card or GP visit card can be found on the HSE website at www.mymedicalcard.ie.