Laya Healthcare customers are being advised to review their individual health insurance plans following the announcement of further price changes from October 2026.
According to a report by The Journal, premiums on a number of Laya Healthcare plans are set to increase by an average of 2.7%, affecting approximately 65 schemes. However, the impact will depend on the individual plan held, with some plans reported to be increasing by more than the average figure.
The announcement highlights an important point for anyone approaching their health insurance renewal: it is worth checking exactly how any changes affect your own policy.
What changes are being reported?
The Journal reported that the latest changes could add approximately €58 per year for an adult and around €140 annually for a typical family, although the actual increase will vary depending on the policy.
The report also noted that some plans, including schemes within the Inspire, Prosper and Optimum ranges, were not expected to increase in October. Laya's Assure Protect plan was also reported to be reducing in price, while young adult rates were being introduced across most plans.
Because health insurance plans can differ significantly, customers should review their own renewal documentation rather than assuming that the average increase will apply to them.
Why you should look beyond the headline percentage
An average price increase does not tell the full story for every customer.
The reported 2.7% figure represents an average across the affected plans, meaning some policies may experience a different level of change.
When your renewal arrives, it can be helpful to consider:
- Your new premium
- How the premium compares with your previous renewal
- Any changes to your policy benefits
- Hospital and treatment cover included in your plan
- Excesses and co-payments
- Day-to-day medical benefits
- Policy limits and exclusions
- Whether the plan continues to suit your circumstances
The lowest premium may not necessarily provide the level of benefits you need. Equally, a more expensive policy may include benefits that are not relevant to your circumstances.
Why are health insurance premiums changing?
Health insurers have pointed to increasing healthcare and claims costs as a factor behind recent premium changes.
Healthcare costs and demand for services can affect the pricing of health insurance plans. However, the premium and benefits that apply to an individual customer will depend on the specific plan and the insurer's pricing arrangements.
It is therefore important to check your renewal documentation carefully and understand any changes before renewing your cover.
Is your health insurance renewal a good time to review your options?
For many people, renewal provides a useful opportunity to look again at their health insurance arrangements.
Your circumstances may have changed since you originally selected your policy. You may have different priorities now, or you may wish to review the benefits included in your current cover.
A review can help you consider questions such as:
What benefits are most important to me?
Think about the type of healthcare cover you want and the benefits that are relevant to you or your family.
Do I understand my current policy?
Take time to review what your policy includes, as well as its limits, exclusions, excesses and terms.
Has my premium changed?
Compare your renewal premium with your previous policy cost and check whether there have been changes to the plan itself.
Are there other options worth considering?
Different health insurance plans can offer different combinations of benefits and costs. Comparing available options can help you make a more informed decision.
Don't automatically renew without checking your cover
Health insurance is an important financial commitment for many households.
When your renewal notice arrives, taking the time to understand your premium and policy benefits can help you make a more informed decision about your cover.
At Dooley Insurance Group, we understand that health insurance can be complicated, particularly when premiums and benefits change.
If you would like to discuss your health insurance requirements and the options available based on your circumstances, contact our team through Dooley Insurance Group.
Please remember that health insurance premiums, benefits, exclusions, limits, excesses and eligibility requirements can vary between policies and insurers. Cover is always subject to the terms and conditions of the relevant policy, so it is important to review the documentation carefully before making a decision.
Source: The Journal, “Laya Healthcare customers face second round of price hikes in 12 months”, August 2026.
0 comments