Terence Flanagan
Question:669. Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Health his plans to ensure that health insurance premiums do not continue to rise; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16677/14]
View answerTuesday, 8 April 2014
Questions (669)
Written answers
The health insurance market is challenged by factors such as an ageing population, a reduction in numbers holding private health insurance and constant pressures on claims costs. However, I am determined to address these issues and to promote a sustainable private health insurance market as we move towards Universal Health Insurance.
I have consistently emphasised the need for much greater cost control in the private health insurance industry so that premiums are affordable for as many people as possible. I appointed an independent chair to work with health insurers, the HIA and my own Department to identify effective strategies for costs management. Mr. Pat McLoughlin's first report, published at the end of December, made a number of important recommendations now being pursued by insurers, the HSE and my Department. These recommendations include measures to control costs, greatly improve clinical audit, streamline claims processing and address fraud, waste and abuse in the industry. Work on Phase II of Mr. McLoughlin's report, which will deal further with the factors driving costs in health insurance, is progressing well and will be completed as soon as possible.
In addition, the Deputy may wish to note that many consumers can make large savings on their health insurance premiums by shopping around for the health insurance plan that best suits their needs. For those who have been insured on the same plan for a number of years, it is important to review the level of cover to ensure that their needs are being met, without being over-insured. Consumers have a legal right to switch between or within insurers to get better value and to reduce their premium costs. The Health Insurance Authority (HIA) provides information to consumers regarding their rights and also on health insurance plans and benefits. The HIA's web-site www.hia.ie has a useful plan comparison tool which assists in finding suitable and competitive health insurance plans. The HIA may also be contacted by phone at LoCall 1850 929 166.