Harney shrugs off VHI claims as hype

HEALTH Minister Mary Harney has dismissed as “hype” suggestions that she jeopardised the country’s largest health insurer by deciding against introducing risk equalisation.

Ms Harney said VHI was a “very strong company” with an 80% share of the market. “Let nobody hype the situation to lead people to believe that it is somehow in danger,” she said.

The board of VHI will meet today to discuss their response to the Minister’s announcement. Ms Harney indicated she expected the company would increase its premiums. She said last year’s 3% annual increase in premiums was widely regarded as too low.