James Lawless (Kildare North, Fianna Fail)
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377. To ask the Minister for Health if he will provide further information on the criteria needed to qualify for the new GP card scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50858/22]

Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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As announced, Budget 2023 will increase the eligibility of people for General Practice (GP) access cards. The scheme will be expanded to cover all children aged 6 and 7 by the end of 2022 and, from 1 April 2023, eligibility will be extended to people who earn the median household income of €46,000 or less. It will be adjusted for people living alone and for those with children; further operational details will be made available prior to the commencement of the income-based expansion. It is envisaged that these measures will be supported by a significant package of additional capacity supports to GP practices.

Details on the current eligibility criteria for a medical card or GP visit card, and how to apply for same, are available from the HSE website.