Hundreds of thousands of people in Ireland are not taking advantage of a state benefit scheme offering free or discounted dental, optical and hearing care. Some 2.5m people pay PRSI, which entitles them to services such as a free dental check-up once a year. However, more than two-thirds of those who qualify did not avail of the entitlement last year, while an even smaller number sought free eye and hearing exams and related equipment.

Tags: Health care, Northern Ireland, PRSI