The number of people with health insurance has edged up over the third quarter of the year, fresh data from the authority governing the sector suggests.
In its quarterly bulletin, the Health Insurance Authority (HIA) has reported that just over 2.5 million people are now covered to some extent by private insurance with the numbers jumping by 13,166 people in the three months to the end of September.
That compares with growth of 4,130 in the second quarter.
The HIA said there was a 1.2 per cent increase in the numbers with health cover over the 12 months to the end of September.
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The average premium in the third quarter was put at €1,886, up €56 since last the previous quarter from €1,830, due to the increase in prices from several insurers across many of their plans in October. The total increase in the average cost of plans is now 8 per cent since the beginning of 2025.
The data say there were 334 inpatient plans available to consumers at the end of September, with 18 new plans introduced and 22 retired so far this year.
VHI continues to be the market leader, with a share of 48 per cent, while Laya Healthcare is on 28 per cent and Irish Life Health has 20.4 per cent of the market.
The most recent entrant, Level Health, was said to have 0.8 per cent of the market.
In the third quarter of the year, the HIA received 1,803 consumer calls, with most focused on plan comparisons, renewals and new joiners. Over 75 per cent of queries related to comparing plans, reflecting strong interest in switching during the summer renewal season.
“The market continues to grow, but rising premiums are a concern for many consumers,” said Briana Lee, chief executive of the authority. “We encourage everyone to review their cover and explore options using our free and impartial comparison tool.
“Even small changes, like switching to a newer plan or adjusting your excess, can lead to meaningful savings. It is important to review your policy and, if you need to, shop around to make sure that you have the right cover for your needs.”
