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VHI Raises Premiums 3% From March in Third Increase in a Year

The state-owned market leader cites sharply higher claims costs after a surge in private-hospital activity.

Overview

  • Policies taken out or renewed from 1 March will carry the higher rates, while many customers who renewed in January or February will avoid this increase.
  • Industry estimates suggest the rise adds roughly €35–€160 per adult annually and about €80–€270 for a family, with larger jumps on some plans.
  • Examples include AdvancedCare Day to Day up €423 a year for a family of four, FirstCare 500 Day-to-Day up €130, and Enhanced Care 250 up €44, while PublicPlusCare plans remain unchanged.
  • VHI says private-hospital claims costs increased by about 13% last year and claim volumes rose roughly 8%, driving higher healthcare delivery costs.
  • This follows 3% hikes in March and October 2025 and comes as rivals raise prices, with Irish Life Health up 5% from January and Level Health set to lift rates from 2 February, while an April move by Laya is viewed as likely by an industry adviser.