1-in-4 switched health insurers

Nearly one in four people with private health insurance have switched providers, it has emerged.

However, there has only been a slight increase in the number of people moving from one health insurer to another.

Consumer research published by the Health Insurance Authority shows that the number of switchers has increased by just 4% since 2013.

Of the 24% who have switched, most (68%) have switched once, with over a quarter (27%) switching more often.

Also, Vhi tends to be the company losing out, with over half (58%) of switchers originally with Vhi. One in six (17%) switched from Laya and one in five moved from Aviva.

There is also strong loyalty among those who have never switched — just 13% ever consider switching.

The study conducted late last year by MillwardBrown for the HIA also found that those with Vhi policies tend to be older, while Aviva and GloHealth policyholders tend to be younger.

The main reason given for having health insurance is that the cost of medical treatment and accommodation is high.