Michael Healy-Rae
Ceist:571. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Health if he will address a matter (details supplied) regarding private health insurance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12433/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 20 March 2018
Ceisteanna (571)
Freagraí scríofa
Our health insurance system is voluntary and community rated. Lifetime Community Rating (LCR) was introduced in May 2015 to encourage people to join the private health insurance market at an earlier age and thus avoid late entry loadings of 2% per annum which may apply at age 35 and older. There was a grace period available up until introduction, during which time health insurance could be purchased (at any age) without incurring loadings. The application of loadings is mandatory and applies to the premium of anyone aged 35 and over taking out health insurance for the first time.
It should be noted that following a review of the system of Lifetime Community Ratings in 2017 by the Health Insurance Authority, amendments have been made to refine the system, including the fact that any loadings that are incurred are now applied for ten years (previously, loadings applied for life).
It is also important to note that the purchase of private health insurance is optional and that people who do not take out health insurance continue to have the same entitlement to services in the public hospital system.