A Mountcharles GP says the GP card extension will be useful to some people but long waiting lists for referrals will continue to delays medical care.
People who earn the median household income of €46,000 or less will be eligible for a free GP card under a new Budget measure.
However, Dr Maria Moy says the GP card will be beneficial for some people, but ultimately those who need onward referral will have to join a waiting list unless they have health insurance.
She says the money could have been spent on making further health services more accessible..