Private Medical Insurance

That's what I thought. To me its yet another way to get around community rating. If you're with (some?) group schemes you can even temporarily switch to a scheme with a higher benefit, should the need arise.

Is the concession on a case by case basis, do you know? For example, I'm a member of a reasonable large retired pensioners group. Would they be considered for a group scheme and, if so, would this concession be a matter for seperate negotiation.

Thanks in advance…

We dont get any benefit, at all, on health insurance.

Hi Ruddy,

I'm currently paying for my parents health insurance (76 and 80 years old) who both have a medical card for GP/everyday expenses. Both have recently had orthopeadic surgeries for knees, shoulers and hips and may need something similiar in the future, as well as potentially some ophthalmic procedures for my mother.

They are on Simply Connect with an upcoming renewal on March 1st, but looking for a similar-coverage Laya plan at lower price point preferrably.

1. Ortho/Ophathalmic with semi-private coverage, ideally with a low copay / shortfall.

2. Cardiac, Cancer care and scans would be second priority

3. Everyday expenses not a priority.

4. Based in Dublin, so Hermitage / Blackrock or Mater would be preferable for access.

Many thanks!

Hello Ruddy,

Thank you for the invaluable advice given out here. It prompted us to look at my in laws policy.

VHI AdvancedCare Extra Day-to-Day at €650 per month for the couple.

M aged 85 and F aged 80.

M with Parkinsons but F in good health apart from a hernia that shows up from time to time.

Seems to be a comprehensive policy, but is there cover as good at a more reasonable cost?

Regards and thanks,

HD.

Thank you, it's very much appreciated. I'll have a look through these. Though at first glance, I may be better off on First Cover/Extra at the moment & next year I'll consider changing to a better plan.

HI Ruddy,

I would really appreciate some of your expert advice, if possible please ?

Myself(51)and my husband(55)are currently on Laya Simply Connect Plus with renewal 1st March. Both of us have osteoarthritis but have no immediate plans for replacements at this time. Laya have offered us a discount of 420e to stay on plan. Given that sweetener would you still recommend Prosper Advance ?

If we were willing to take on 20% shortfall for orthopaedics would you recommend Inpsire Plus or Prosper Care? ( I am aware of 2yr upgrade rule if we reduce cover now )

We have 2 young adults 25 and 21 on Vhi Enhanced Care 250 day to day . Their renewal is 26th March 2026 they get 5% discount on premium which works out 148.65e per month. Both are in good health but would like to keep gp, physiotherapy, minor injury unit access for 25yr old who is prone to sporting injuries. He also makes use of optical benefits.

We are just trying to balance the books a little as we are facing a bill close to 600e per month for health insurance for the 4 of us. That's appropriately 100e more than last year.

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Hi Ruddy,

Thank you for your prompt advice.

I thought Prosper Care had 20% shortfall for orthopaedics the same as Inspire Plus. Is it the room excesses that make more expensive? Health insurance is a minefield at the minute.

Thank you for advice re the kids.

Hi Ruddy,

I’m currently on Pmi 63 10 with VHI but thinking of switching to IL Health Guide 2. However LH Plan Pro looks good as well. €4k shortfall on ortho which I am okay with. Hospitals, day to day and urgent care looks good on Plan Pro.

Are there major differences between Health Guide 2 and Plan Pro?

Many thanks