Q.  I have a medical card for my family and myself. Is the card valid for a certain period? Do I have to do anything to renew it?

10.03.08

A medical card is usually issued for a period of one year and is then reviewed, although it may be issued for a longer period depending on your circumstances. You must still meet the eligibility requirements during this period so if, for example, your income or family circumstances change, you may no longer be eligible.

The Health Service Executive (HSE) will usually ask you to confirm your circumstances each year by sending you a review form that you must fill in and return to your Local Health Office. It is important to return this form as otherwise your card may not be re-issued. The same process applies to the GP Visit Card.

If you have dependent children who are covered on your medical card, they should apply to get their own card when they reach 16 years of age. If you don’t automatically receive a form to do this, you can obtain one from your Local Health Office. To ensure that there isn’t a gap in coverage, it is important to allow sufficient time so that the application can be processed before their 16th birthday.

Citizens Information: Buncrana 074 9363496; Carndonagh 074 9373741

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