Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 6 May 2015
427. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Health the criteria which determine the list of covered hospitals, set by agreements with the Government, as outlined (details supplied); if he is satisfied that such practices are fair; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17898/15]
View answerUnder the Health Insurance Act 1970, everyone who is ordinarily resident in Ireland qualifies for public hospital care. Notwithstanding this, 44% of the Irish population has private health insurance and many people opt to be treated privately.
The private health insurers operate in a competitive market and are free to impose certain terms and conditions on their policies, providing they comply with the Minimum Benefit Regulations. For services that are covered by private health insurance, each private health insurance provider in the Irish market has the right to determine which health care provider they will cover for the benefit of their customers. It is a matter for each insurer to determine how much capacity in any particular area is purchased by it to deliver the services required by its members.
The private health insurers have no legal obligation to cover all public hospitals, and may opt to offer plans that do not cover certain hospitals, providing they are in compliance with the health insurance legislation.
While the introduction of lower-cost, more affordable health insurance plans is welcome, cost should not be the only factor considered by consumers when selecting a health insurance product. It is also important to select a plan that provides an adequate level of cover and that consumers are fully aware of any reduced level of cover provided at the time of purchase. All insurers offer a 14 day "cooling-off" period from the commencement of a customer's contract during which time a person may cancel and get a full refund.
