A Doctor Visit Card (DVC) is a means-tested card issued by the HSE (Health Service Executive) in Ireland. It entitles the holder to free GP visits but does not cover the cost of prescriptions, unlike a full medical card (GMS card).
This guide explains who qualifies for a DVC, how to apply, and what it covers — including how to use it at Clarius Health clinics in Dublin.
What Does a Doctor Visit Card Cover?
A Doctor Visit Card covers the cost of GP consultations only. This means:
Free GP visits: You can see your registered GP at no charge for standard consultations.
Prescriptions not included: You must pay for any medicines prescribed. However, prescription costs may be partially offset by the Drugs Payment Scheme (DPS), which caps monthly out-of-pocket drug costs.
Referrals and tests: GP referral letters are generally included. Blood tests, X-rays, and other investigations may have separate charges depending on where they are carried out.
What a DVC does NOT cover: specialist (consultant) visits, hospital charges, dental, optical, or any services not provided by your GP.
Who Qualifies for a Doctor Visit Card?
DVCs are means-tested. The HSE assesses your household income and compares it against weekly income thresholds. As of 2025, the thresholds are approximately:
Under 70 years of age: €184 per week for a single person living alone; higher thresholds apply for couples, families, and those with dependants.
Over 70 years of age: all people aged 70 and over are automatically eligible for a DVC regardless of income.
Note: Income limits change periodically. Check hse.ie for the most up-to-date thresholds before applying.
How to Apply for a Doctor Visit Card
You can apply for a DVC online through the HSE’s MyMedCards service at mymedicards.ie. Here is what you need:
Step 1: Go to mymedicards.ie and select ‘Apply for a Doctor Visit Card’.
Step 2: Enter your personal details and PPS number.
Step 3: Provide details of your household income (employment, social welfare, pensions, rental income, etc.).
Step 4: Submit your application. The HSE will assess it and notify you by post.
Applications are usually processed within a few weeks. If approved, your DVC will be posted to you.
Difference Between a DVC and a Full Medical Card
A full medical card (GMS card) covers GP visits AND prescriptions AND many other health services including hospital services, dental, optical, and hearing services. It is available to those on lower incomes or in certain qualifying categories (e.g. people receiving certain social welfare payments).
A Doctor Visit Card covers GP visits only and is available to those whose income is above the medical card threshold but below the DVC threshold.
Using Your DVC at Clarius Health
Clarius Health accepts DVC patients at our Dublin clinics. If you hold a DVC and register with one of our practices, your GP consultations will be covered by the HSE at no cost to you.
To register your DVC with Clarius Health:
1. Contact your nearest clinic (Camden, Crumlin, or Cabra) to register as a new patient.
2. Provide your DVC card number and PPS number.
3. If transferring from another GP, request a transfer through mymedicards.ie.
Once registered, book your appointments online at clarius.ie or by calling your clinic directly.
Clarius Health clinics accepting DVC patients:
Clarius Health Camden — 35 Camden Street Upper, Dublin 2
Clarius Health Crumlin — Kildare Road, Dublin 12
Clarius Health Cabra — 109 Cabra Road, Dublin 7
