Health Insurance

Health Insurance rates are on the rise again and in some cases, the cumulative increase could be in excess of 10%… However, with over 365 schemes on the market there are plans to suit all requirements and budgets.

Too many consumers remain on the same plan and fail to review their cover annually.  Factors such as fear of change, concern about pre-existing conditions, insurer loyalty, confusion with the vast array of plans etc. are often cited as reasons for doing nothing,  However, if you are on the same plan for two years or more, then you are more than likely overpaying for your cover.  Depending on the plan held, savings of €450 per adult or €1,000 per family may be possible.  Remember, you get full credit for all previous membership, so there are no new waiting periods for pre-existing conditions to worry about if you switch to equivalent cover.

Always engage with your insurer approximately 4 week prior to your renewal date.  Check if they have any lower-cost equivalents to your existing plan and don’t be afraid to take on a small excess which is an excellent way of slashing your costs.  If you find an alternative plan that matches your requirements, always have the insurer confirm exactly what you’re losing or gaining before you change.  Always be aware of the Upgrade Rule which may restrict your cover for any additional benefits to your previous plan for two years for any pre-existing conditions.

The best advice is to treat health insurance as you would car or home insurance.  Shop around each year and if you find a better deal, take it!  Remember in many cases you don’t even need to change insurers as you may be able to obtain better overall cover from your existing provider.  To avoid unnecessary shortfalls, always check all treatments, scans and tests in advance with your health insurer.

The Health Insurance Authority (HIA) is an excellent reference site for information on new plans and discounted offers (www.hia.ie) .  Remember, the HIA are not permitted to provide any type of advisory service. 

Be careful of some schemes labelled “Teachers” plans as these can represent dated cover which is too expensive and no longer good value for money.  Check out the best corporate plans below which are available to all consumers;          

If you are concerned about changing plan or provider, don’t be afraid to seek independent advice.  Preferably, you should source an advisor who specialises in health-care only and deals equally with all healthcare providers in the market.             

Via our partners, AllClear Insurance Services, we have a solution.

Brassington Insurance & Co Ltd t/a Quickcover.ie is one the leading travel insurers in Ireland.

We have a new product for over 75 years of age and/or for those with pre-existing medical conditions. 

This will be of interest to many and should you have any queries please call 01 525 7918  or visit www.quickcover.ie

A.R. Brassington & Co. Ltd trading as QuickCover.ie is regulated by The Central Bank of Ireland. Registered No. 7920. Registered Office 9 Blackrock Business Park, Blackrock, Co. Dublin, A94 E4X2.