The delivery of health care in Ireland is currently a major concern of national politics. Health care is typically delivered in a mix of private and public systems with most infra-structure being in private hands. Everyone is entitled to health care in Ireland, and this is partly funded by the social security contributions.

Free primary healthcare is provided under the General Medical Services scheme for those who earn below a certain income, and for all over the age of seventy irrespective of income. Persons entitled to free health care will receive a medical card. The average life expectancy is 68 years for men and 72 for women.