The Irish health insurance market remains strong, but consumers are under pressure
The Health Insurance Authority (HIA) has published its latest market information for the Irish private health insurance sector, providing useful insight into how the market is changing and what consumers should consider when reviewing their cover.
At Dooley Insurance Group, we know that health insurance can be difficult to navigate, particularly when premiums, plans and benefits are changing. The latest figures are a useful reminder that reviewing your policy regularly is important — especially when your renewal date approaches.
The HIA publishes quarterly market bulletins and annual reports to help consumers understand the private health insurance market and make informed decisions.
More than 2.5 million people have private health insurance
Private health insurance remains an important part of the Irish healthcare landscape.
At the end of 2025, approximately 2.55 million people in Ireland held private health insurance. The market had continued to grow despite significant increases in premiums during the year.
However, the latest Q2 2026 figures indicate a small change in that trend. The number of people covered fell by 1,663 during the second quarter, representing a 0.1% quarter-on-quarter decrease. Despite this, approximately 2.55 million people remained covered at the end of June 2026, with membership still higher than the same period in 2025.
This suggests that while private health insurance continues to have a significant place in Ireland, the cost of cover is becoming an increasingly important consideration for households.
The cost of health insurance is an important consideration
One of the clearest trends in the recent HIA market data is the increase in health insurance premiums.
The HIA reported that the average adult premium reached approximately €1,902 at the beginning of March 2026, following an average increase of around 9% during 2025.
The average figure is useful for understanding the market, but it doesn't tell you what your own policy should cost. Premiums can vary significantly depending on the plan, insurer, age, level of cover and other factors.
This is why simply comparing the headline price of two policies isn't always enough.
Why reviewing your health insurance matters
With premiums changing and new plans entering the market, staying on the same policy year after year may mean you're no longer getting cover that best matches your circumstances.
The HIA has also highlighted the limited amount of switching taking place among consumers. Its 2025 consumer survey found that 82% of consumers had not shopped around for health insurance during the previous 12 months, while more than 70% had never switched either provider or plan.
For many people, reviewing their health insurance simply means checking that their existing plan still makes sense.
Consider asking yourself:
- Do I still need all the benefits included in my current plan?
- Are there benefits I would value more on another plan?
- Have the excesses or other out-of-pocket costs changed?
- Has the price of my plan increased?
- Would a different level of cover be more appropriate?
- Are there any changes to my circumstances that should be reflected in my cover?
Don't compare price alone
A cheaper health insurance plan isn't necessarily better for your circumstances.
When comparing policies, it's important to look beyond the premium and consider the benefits, exclusions, excesses, hospital cover and other terms that apply.
Different policies can provide different levels of cover, so consumers should always check the full policy documentation before making a decision.
This is particularly important if you're considering reducing your level of cover. A plan that costs less may also provide fewer benefits or have different limits and exclusions.
What about switching insurer?
Switching health insurer isn't necessarily complicated, but it's important to understand the implications before making a change.
In Ireland, consumers have important protections when switching health insurance, but waiting periods and other rules can apply in certain circumstances, particularly when increasing cover.
Your existing circumstances and policy terms also matter.
That's why we recommend reviewing your policy before your renewal date rather than making a decision based purely on a headline price.
At Dooley Insurance Group, we can help you understand the options available and explain the differences between policies so you can make an informed decision based on your own circumstances.
You can learn more about our services and get in touch with us through our Dooley Insurance Group website.
The market is changing — your policy should still work for you
The HIA's latest figures provide a useful snapshot of the Irish health insurance market. While around 2.55 million people continue to have private health insurance, rising premiums and a small recent decline in membership show why consumers should keep an eye on their cover.
The key takeaway isn't necessarily that everyone should switch insurer or change their policy.
Instead, it's that your health insurance deserves a review each year.
Your healthcare needs can change. Your finances can change. Insurance plans can change too.
Taking some time to review your options at renewal can help you understand what you're paying for and whether your current level of cover remains suitable.
If you're approaching your health insurance renewal and aren't sure whether your current plan is still right for you, talk to the team at Dooley Insurance Group. We can help you understand your options and make an informed decision.
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