The survey carried out in conjunction with Ipsos and published on Tuesday suggests 46 per cent of adults in Ireland have private health insurance but 70 per cent have never switched to another company or plan. Only 4 per cent of consumers switched provider over the past 12 months while 15 per cent moved to a different plan offered by their existing provider over the same time frame. [ Nearly half population now reliant on private health insurance as claims soarOpens in new window ]Health insurance experts have repeatedly highlighted how those who stick with the same policies for more than three years can end up paying hundreds of euro more each year than they need to and often for a reduced level of cover. It said its survey involving more than 2,000 face-to-face interviews was the “most comprehensive picture of consumer behaviour, attitudes and experiences in Ireland’s private health insurance market”. It said it had been revamped and now matched plans to the consumer’s health need priorities and their budget and offers information on the plans that fit set criteria.

Source: The Irish Times March 24, 2026 11:11 UTC