Irish Life and Level Health announce premium hikes amid rising costs

It marks the latest price increase from health insurers after premiums surged several times across the market last year.

Two health insurers have announced price hikes as consumers again feel the pinch from cost-of-living increases.

Irish Life Health will increase premium prices by an average of 5.9% from April 1, while Level Health’s advanced plans will rise by €48 from April 3.

It marks the latest price increase from health insurers after premiums surged several times across the market last year.

Irish Life Health said the increases reflect rising healthcare costs.

“Increases in the cost of delivering healthcare continue to be a challenge for health insurers and these rising costs are outpacing general inflation,” managing director Ann Marie Nestor said.

“Consequently, the price of medical care, medicines and treatments is increasing at a higher rate than everyday household expenses.”

Dermot Wells, head of health insurance at brokers Cornmarket, said the hikes couldn’t come at a worse time for consumers.

“Unfortunately, this trend is set to continue and will be heightened in 2026 as the Government’s 10% levy hike takes effect, raising the adult advanced levy to €517 and the child levy to €172,” he said.

“With average 2026 premium increases projected to exceed 15%, the flat levy model continues to deter younger joiners and poses long‑term risks to market stability.”

Dermot Goode, from Health Insurance Ireland, said that, using Irish Life Health’s figures, he estimates the latest rise will cost between €75 and €238 for one adult on mid-level plans or higher.

“Whilst some plans will not increase, we understand that the highest increase on certain plans will be up to 11%,” he said. “We have no details on which plans will be impacted by this percentage as of yet.

“This rate change was expected, but we are surprised by the size of the increase, given that their last rate change was in January just gone. It comes on the back of more increases across the market from Level Health, VHI and Laya.

“The ongoing cycle of regular price hikes looks set to continue through 2026. There is a real risk now that many members especially those on the lower level plans could be priced out of the market.”

Meanwhile, Health Insurance Authority chief executive Brian Lee said: “We recognise that these changes can cause uncertainty for consumers, particularly during a time when households are mindful of rising costs.

“Our role is to make sure consumers have clear, impartial information so they can make confident, informed decisions about their cover. We encourage all policyholders to take a moment at renewal to review their options.”