Peter Mathews
Question:457 Deputy Peter Mathews asked the Minister for Health his views on the cost of health insurance premiums (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23981/12]
View answerTuesday, 15 May 2012
Questions (379)
Written answers
I am very disappointed that insurers have introduced co-payments for procedures that primarily affect older people and I will be considering what measures might be available to me to address this issue. The example used by the Deputy of a €2000 co-payment relates to a company policy of one particular insurer. It is important to note that different insurers also offer plans which provide full cover for orthopaedics and that customers would be well advised to shop around for the plan that best suits their needs. Where customers wish to switch products, the relevant health insurance legislation ensures that switching is as easy and seamless as possible for customers.
Consumers have a legal right to switch between or within insurers to get better value and to reduce their premium costs. I would advise all customers to consider carefully the full range of plans and levels of cover available within the market, so that their own needs are fully met.
It is not open to a company to refuse a customer of another insurer the same level of cover. Policy holders can switch to the same level of cover without waiting times for cover to apply. In addition to the choices available to consumers in the health insurance market, the Government's clear objective is for the health insurance market to remain as competitive and affordable as possible, as we move towards a new system of Universal Health Insurance.