Quinn customers face price hikes

PRICE increases of up to 18% have been announced by Quinn Insurance — the company that took over BUPA health insurance six months ago.

From next January, individuals will face price hikes of up to 3% while families of four will also face 5% hikes.

The company is also abolishing the traditional 10% discount for applying online and for group schemes.

A 3% service charge is also to be introduced for anyone paying their insurance by direct debit.

According to Quinn Insurance general manager Colin Morgan, discount schemes are being abolished “in line with government recommendations” based on “introducing a standard, transparent and uniform price”.

The company also said they were currently “enjoying record growth in membership numbers”.

Quinn Insurance also announced that it will continue until the end of this year, an offer where customers can receive €400 off their house insurance bill if they take out both motor and health insurance with the company.

From next year, that figure will change to €200 per year for the next three years — savings of €600 over three years.

Rival health insurance company, VHI last night described the increases as “stealth charges”.