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Register with a GP for your Medical Card or GP Visit Card

To use a Medical Card or GP Visit Card, you usually need to be registered with a GP who accepts these cards.
This topic helps you choose a GP and get their acceptance for your card application.

Use this topic if you or someone you support is
  • Applying for a new Medical Card or GP Visit Card
  • Moving to a new area and need a local GP
  • Getting a card in your own name for the first time
  • Helping someone who is not yet registered with a GP who accepts Medical Card or GP Visit Card patients

If you are already registered and just want to change doctor, use Change your GP on your Medical Card instead.

Before you begin`

Try to have:

  • Details about you

    • Your PPS number
    • Your home address and Eircode
    • Any current Medical Card or GP Visit Card details, if you already have one

  • Information that helps you choose a GP

    • A short list of GP practices near where you live that might suit you, for example, close to home or good public transport

  • If you already have a GP

    • Check whether they still accept Medical Card or GP Visit Card patients
    • If they do, you may be able to stay with the same doctor and simply list them on your application

Then work through each step in order.

Step 1. Find GPs who accept Medical Card or GP Visit Card patients

Most people start by looking for a GP practice near their home.

You can:

  • Use the HSE Find a GP or equivalent local search to see practices in your area.
  • Ask neighbours, friends or family which GP they are registered with

Make a short list of practices that:

  • Are within a reasonable distance of your home, and
  • Are open to accepting Medical Card or GP Visit Card patients if they have space

Tip

When you phone, write down the name of the GP, the practice name, and the person you spoke to, in case the HSE later asks for details.

Step 2. Ask a GP to accept you on their list

Each GP decides whether they can take you on as a Medical Card or GP Visit Card patient.
They may say yes or no depending on:

  • How many patients are already on their list
  • Whether you live within their practice area
  • Whether they can meet your medical needs

When you contact the practice:

  1. Say that you are applying for a Medical Card or GP Visit Card.
  2. Ask if the GP is taking on new patients at the moment and can accept you as a card patient.
  3. Confirm:
    • The name of the GP who will be your doctor
    • The practice address
    • Any special arrangements. for example if you are already a private patient and now wish to use a card

If the GP agrees, ask what they prefer you to do next:

  • For online applications, say whether the GP is happy for you to select their name in the online form. The HSE then contacts them directly to confirm.
  • For paper forms (MC1 or MC1a). the practice may ask you to bring or post the form to them so that they can complete the doctor acceptance section and stamp it.

Important

A GP is not obliged to accept you as a Medical Card or GP Visit Card patient.
If they say no, thank them and try another practice from your list.

Step 3. Complete the doctor section on the application form

If you are applying online:

  • Select the GP name and practice from the list, if available.
  • Check that the address on the system matches the practice details you were given.
  • The HSE will usually contact the GP to confirm they agree to accept you.

If you are applying by post on Form MC1 or MC1a:

  • Go to Part 5 – Doctor of choice
  • Write in:
    • Name of the doctor or medical centre
    • Address of the practice
    • Any other details the form asks for. for example practice code if shown

Then:

  • Give or send the form to the practice so the doctor or their representative can:
  • Sign the Doctor’s acceptance section
  • Stamp the form with the practice stamp, if they have one

For people aged 70 or over, or for a spouse or partner who uses a different GP, there may be a separate doctor acceptance section. Follow the form carefully so each person’s GP is clearly shown.

Before you move on:

  • Check that the doctor acceptance section is signed and dated
  • Make sure the practice stamp is present if the form asks for one
  • Keep a copy or clear photo of the signed section if you can
Step 4. If you cannot find a GP to accept you

Sometimes practices are full or not taking new Medical Card or GP Visit Card patients.
If one GP says no, try another nearby practice.

If three or more GPs have said that they cannot take you on:

  1. Write down:

    • The names and addresses of the GPs you contacted
    • The dates you asked
    • The reason they gave, if any

  2. Contact:

    • Your Local Health Office, or
    • The Medical Card office shown on your application form

Explain that you could not find a GP to accept you, and give them the list of GPs you tried.
In many cases, the HSE can help you find or assign a GP who will accept you as a Medical Card or GP Visit Card patient.

You can also ask a Citizens Information Centre to help you present the information clearly if you feel unsure.

What to do next

After your GP has agreed to take you on and, if needed, has signed the form:

  • Finish your Medical Card or GP Visit Card application
  • Make sure the GP details are included in the online application or that the doctor acceptance section is fully completed on the paper form
  • Keep copies or photos of:
    • The completed form, and
    • Any letters or emails from the practice confirming they have accepted you

If you are unsure at any point:

  • Write down your questions
  • Bring them to Citizens Information, or
  • Phone your Local Health Office and ask to speak to someone about finding a GP for your Medical Card or GP Visit Card

You do not have to sort this out on your own.
The HSE and Citizens Information deal with GP registration for Medical Card and GP Visit Card patients every day and can help you if you get stuck.