Medical card & depressed

LegacyUser

I don't live in a city, the nearest place I could go is Carlow or Portlaoise, maybe north Kildare if traffic is alright. I'm just wondering is there anybody I could go to. I am going to go to my normal doctor but I'm actually still waiting on the medical card so when I get that I'm going but is there anything else that'll help?

Victor

Do you mean a referral to a psychiatrist or counsellor? If you go though the public system, it should be free. once you have a medical card, GP cover is also free. There may be a medication cost.

Have they told you that you qualify for the medical card or do you actually have the card? Most doctors are understanding if there is a card pending.

LegacyUser

Victor wrote: »

Do you mean a referral to a psychiatrist or counsellor? If you go though the public system, it should be free. once you have a medical card, GP cover is also free. There may be a medication cost.

Have they told you that you qualify for the medical card or do you actually have the card? Most doctors are understanding if there is a card pending.

Yes, referral to a psychiatrist or counsellor is what I meant (didn't want to attempt to spell them)

I've sent off the forms for the card and should be getting it(there is no reason why I wouldn't)

I suppose I'm just worried that since I'm going through the public system that like other areas in the medical field, I'll be waiting ages and when I do go it'll be inadequate.

That_Guy

Unreged wrote: »

Yes, referral to a psychiatrist or counsellor is what I meant (didn't want to attempt to spell them)

I've sent off the forms for the card and should be getting it(there is no reason why I wouldn't)

I suppose I'm just worried that since I'm going through the public system that like other areas in the medical field, I'll be waiting ages and when I do go it'll be inadequate.

I've got one myself and it took a little time for it to come. Mine took about a month or so to come after they went through my form. It's all means tested by yourself. How much you earn etc.

How long ago did you apply for it? Just hang on in there and it will come. If you know you meet the criteria then you'll get it soon you just gotta have patience.

In the mean time is there anyone you can go to on a temporary basis to discuss how you're feeling until you get your medical card? It's well worth spending the money for now to alleviate some of your depression.

Best of luck.

Victor

Unreged wrote: »

Yes, referral to a psychiatrist or counsellor is what I meant (didn't want to attempt to spell them)

Not to worry, lots of people get them mixed-up.

I've sent off the forms for the card and should be getting it(there is no reason why I wouldn't)

Well thats a good start.

I suppose I'm just worried that since I'm going through the public system that like other areas in the medical field, I'll be waiting ages and when I do go it'll be inadequate.

It will depend on how serious your condition is and how busy the local service is. However, while many people complain about the health service and waiting lists*, the alternative is a much more expensive system with staff that are under-busy. Staff that are under-busy can be under-experienced. I wouldn't worry about a waiting list - its for a 30-60 minute interview, not a €50,000(?) kidney transplant

In any case, you can arrange with your GP that you see him every 1-2 weeks until your appointment with the psychiatrist. As for counselling, your GP may be able to recommend someone locally. There is likely to be a cost, but many counsellors operate on a "what you can afford" basis - it might mean taking an appointment at an odd time, but you do get to speak to someone.


* Lets not get into that discussion folks, there are more appropriate board for that.

LegacyUser

Thanks for the replies. I would spend money but I actually don't have that money to spend. I'm on the dole with bills, rent, a loan and normal day to day things to pay for. I don't even have money for a social life(not even renting a dvd). Whatever I go for will probably have to be free or paid for by the medial card. I'm very anxious about this, I have no idea what to expect.

gerry28

If you qualify for a medical card then your GP can refer you to a psychiatrist or a counsellor. You will get these visits and your medication on the medical card to.