VHI to increase premiums by average of 2.75%

Michael Bolton

VHI has announced they will be increasing its health insurance premiums by an average of 2.75 per cent from October 1st.

They said the premium increase is necessary to ensure VHI continues to meet the healthcare needs of its members, as both demand for healthcare services and the cost of delivering healthcare continue to rise.

In 2026, VHI has seen private hospital claims costs rise by over nine per cent, and day-to-day care claims costs such as GP, physiotherapy and consultants increase by approximately 14 per cent.

This rise in private hospital costs is also driven by an increase in claim volumes of over five per cent compared to 2025

Demand for including cancer, cardiac and orthopaedic care has also increased by nine per cent.

Commenting on the announcement, Aaron Keogh, Managing Director, Vhi Insurance DAC, said: “We continue to see strong demand for healthcare services across hospitals and everyday healthcare services such as GP and consultant visits and physiotherapy.

"While increased utilisation and healthcare costs continue to place upward pressure on claims cost, it also demonstrates the significant care and value our members receive from their cover.

“We recognise that health insurance is a significant financial commitment for individuals and families. Vhi exists solely for the benefit of our members and in 2025 Vhi paid out €1.84 billion on members healthcare claims.

"Any surplus made by Vhi is reinvested to improve member services, enhance benefits, expand access to care and support the delivery of better healthcare. This enables us to continue investing in the healthcare supports and services that matter most to our members."

Premiums in 2025 also rose twice – by an average of three per cent in March and another three per cent in October.

The move comes less than a week after Laya Healthcare announced an increase the cost of its premiums by an average of just under three per cent.