Two major health insurance companies announce price hikes of up to 11% from April

Two major health insurance companies have announced price hikes of up to 11%, which will take effect from April or a customer's next renewal date. 

Irish Life Health and Level Health are the companies in question, with the Health Insurance Authority breaking the news.

An average premium charge of 5.9% across all plans will be implemented at Irish Life Health, while Level Health's Plans B, C, and D will rise by €48 from April 3rd, according to Breakingnews.ie

The change at Irish Life Health will take effect from April 1st or from the date of their customer's next renewal.

"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," Brian Lee, Health Insurance Authority Chief Executive, said.

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Customers will receive the details on any plan changes from their health insurer.

It's estimated that on average, customers will face costs of between €75 and €238 on a mid-level or higher plan.

That figure is for one adult, with the family plan average typically looking at an extra €180 to €330 per year. 

Some plans may not increase at all, while others will face an increase of up to 11%.