BUPA pull-out - State should not be forced to alter plan

Where the commercial viability of one firm came into conflict with the greater good of the wider community, there was really only going to be one winner.

The withdrawal of BUPA Ireland from the health insurance market was a development not entirely unexpected because the company had signalled its intention to pull out if it were compelled to pay risk equalisation.

That it has come to its decision will be bemoaned as being detrimental to competition, but risk equalisation is necessary and equitable.