Medical Card Scheme

(Community Ophthalmic Services Scheme – Health Service Executive (HSE))

This scheme, which is for Medical Card holders,  provides free eye examinations for qualified applicants through contracted optometrist practices throughout the country. One claim every two years is permitted unless there is a clinical reason for a more frequent examination.

It also provides for a limited range of spectacles at no charge.

All applicants must obtain approval in advance from the Local Health Office that issued the Medical Card, this is usually the one covering the area where they live. Service may be obtained from any optical practice which has a contract with the HSE. As the HSE operates in excess of 32 authorising units around the country the period taken to obtain approval can vary considerably. The HSE contract with participating optometrists indicates that it should not be more than 4 weeks.

Medical Card holders seeking optical services will obtain assistance at the optometrist practice of their choice. The staff will explain the scheme and will provide assistance in completion of Forms.

Eligibility Criteria:

In ordinary circumstance an eye examination will only be approved every two years maximum.

Applicant must hold a valid and current full medical card (not a GP only card).

Approval must be obtained from the HSE office that issued the Medical Card in the first instance, even if the applicant has moves since. Service may be obtained anywhere through a registered optical practice.

Services for children up to 16 years of age are not automatically covered under parents Medical Cards for optical services through optometrists practices.