Rory O'Hanlon
Question:95 Dr. O'Hanlon asked the Minister for Health whether community rating will be protected when health insurance is provided by new companies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8746/96]
Written Answers. - Health Insurance.
, Limerick East): The Health Insurance Act, 1994 and the 1996 Health Insurance regulations made pursuant to that Act provide the regulatory framework for the operation of a competitive health insurance market in this country. Sections 7 (1) and 7 (2) of the Health Insurance Act, 1994 provide that health insurance contracts can only be sold on a community rated basis, whereby the same premium is chargeable for the same duration and level of cover to all persons regardless of the individual's age, sex or health status. All health insurers wishing to sell health insurance in this country must operate within the terms of the regulatory framework.