The Mother and Infant Care Scheme provides care to all expectant mothers who are ordinarily resident in Ireland. This service is provided by a family doctor of your choice and a hospital obstetrician. At Carlton Clinic, all our doctors at Carlton are pleased to offer this service to our patients. You do not need a medical card to avail of this free service.
The doctor provides an initial examination, if possible before 12 weeks, and a further 5 examinations for your first pregnancy and a further 6 examinations for your second and subsequent pregnancies. These visits are alternated with visits to the maternity unit or hospital. Please note the schedule of visits in the graphic below. The schedule of visits may be changed by your doctor and/or hospital obstetrician depending on your individual situation.
Where an expectant mother suffers from a significant illness affecting the pregnancy, e.g. diabetes, hyperemesis and hypertension, up to 5 additional visits to the doctor may be provided. These illnesses are the only additonal illness covered under this scheme. Unfortunately, illness such as nausea in pregnancy, back pain etc may not be covered and you may be asked to pay. Visits in respect of other matters (e.g. colds, coughs, illnesses, etc) will be charged as normal.
When your baby is born
After the birth, the GP will examine the baby at 2 weeks, and both mother and baby at 6 weeks free of charge. All other postnatal visits will be charged as normal.
You should apply for the Doctor Visit Card online for your baby as soon as possible after she/he is born. Visit this website for more information.
When your baby is 2 calendar months old, he or she will be due his or her first vaccinations. It is important to bring your baby for vaccination when he or she is due as this offers the best protection against illness. You can make an appointment with our reception. You will need to bring your baby’s PPS number with you for the vaccination. Vaccinations are carried out by the nurse. Routine childhood vaccinations are provided free of charge.