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Keep, renew and manage your Medical Card or GP Visit Card

Medical Cards and GP Visit Cards are usually granted for a set period of time.
From time to time the HSE will review your details to check if you still qualify.
You may also need to update your details, keep your card when you start work, or deal with a review or appeal.

Use this topic if you or someone you support wants to:
  • Renew a Medical Card or GP Visit Card that is due to expire
  • Replace a lost, stolen or damaged card
  • Tell the HSE about changes in your address, income, work or family
  • Keep a Medical Card after returning to work or joining a scheme
  • Understand letters about a review, reduction or stopping of your card
  • Ask for a reassessment or appeal if you disagree with a decision

If you mainly need everyday guidance on using your card, see:

Choose the route that fits your situation

Most common request

Renew or replace your Medical Card or GP Visit Card

Use this if your card is close to its expiry date, you have received a renewal letter or PIN code from the HSE, or your card has been lost, stolen or damaged and you need a new one.

Renew or replace your card

Keep your card when your circumstances change

Use this if you need to tell the HSE about a change of address, new employment or scheme, or changes in your family or income, and want to know when you can keep your card.

Update your details and keep your card

When your card must stop or be reviewed

Use this if you have had a review letter, your card has been reduced or withdrawn, or you want to ask for a reassessment or appeal of a Medical Card or GP Visit Card decision.

Respond to a review or appeal a decision
!!! tip If you are not sure which option fits you, keep any letters, PIN codes and envelopes from the HSE and start with the review and appeal route. You can then bring your notes to Citizens Information or your Local Health Office and go through them together. Staff can help you understand what the HSE is asking for and what you can do next.