State aims to curb premium hikes

Cash-strapped patients could face yet more health insurance price hikes in the coming weeks, despite fresh Government attempts to force down market costs.

Health Minister Leo Varadkar admitted prices could go up as he announced legislation to bring insurance premiums under control.

He confirmed stamp duty paid by insurers will freeze from March and will reduce for some “non-advanced” coverage. The health insurance levy directly affecting private patients will also fall, from 0.12% to 0.01%.