# Medical Insurances | Healthcare | Moving to Ireland > Health insurance in Ireland is an important consideration for those looking to protect themselves and their families against unexpected medical expenses… Source: https://www.movingtoireland.co/guides/healthcare/medical-insurances/ Healthcare · Step 4 of 6 # Medical Insurances 2 min read · Updated 13 September 2026 Health insurance in Ireland is an important consideration for those looking to protect themselves and their families against unexpected medical expenses. While the Irish public health system, known as the [Health Service Executive (HSE)](http://www.hse.ie), provides some level of free healthcare, many people choose to purchase private health insurance to supplement their coverage and gain access to additional benefits and services. There are some health insurance providers in Ireland, each offering different plans with varying levels of coverage and premiums. The major providers include [VHI](http://www1.vhi.ie/), [Laya Healthcare](http://www.layahealthcare.ie/), and [Irish Life Health](http://www.irishlifehealth.ie/), as well as several smaller companies and specialist insurers. When considering a health insurance plan, it is important to determine the level of coverage needed, including the specific services and treatments that are important to the individual and their family. Plans can cover everything from hospital stays and surgeries to preventative care, mental health services, and dental treatment. Premiums for health insurance plans in Ireland can vary widely depending on the level of coverage and other factors such as age, medical history, and location. It is essential to shop around and compare plans from different providers to find the best fit for your needs and budget. In addition to private health insurance, many employers in Ireland offer health insurance as a benefit to employees. This can be a cost-effective way to access private healthcare, as employers may negotiate discounted rates or contribute to the cost of the premium. The Irish government also offers a range of health-related benefits and schemes for eligible individuals, including the Medical Card and the GP Visit Card, which provide free or subsidized healthcare to those with low incomes or certain medical conditions. Those aged 70 and over may also be eligible for the [Seniors' Alert Scheme](http://www.citizensinformation.ie/en/justice/crime_and_crime_prevention/seniors_alert.html), which provides support and assistance for living independently at home. Overall, health insurance is an important consideration for those living in Ireland, whether through private providers or the public health system. By carefully considering your needs and options, you can find a plan that provides the coverage and peace of mind you need to protect your health and wellbeing. ![](https://www.movingtoireland.co/apple-touch-icon.png) You have read 28% of this guide ## Keep reading in the Moving to Ireland app The rest of **Medical Insurances** — about 1 minute more — is in the app, free to download, alongside 98 other guides and a checklist built around your own move. [Download free on the App Store](https://apps.apple.com/app/moving-to-ireland/id6446055261) iPhone and iPad · no account needed ## More on healthcare [All 6 guides in this section](https://www.movingtoireland.co/guides/healthcare/) - ### [Irish Healthcare System](https://www.movingtoireland.co/guides/healthcare/irish-healthcare-system/) The healthcare system in Ireland is a complex mix of public and private services, with the government providing the majority of funding. Ireland's… 2 min read - ### [Find a GP](https://www.movingtoireland.co/guides/healthcare/general-practitioners-in-ireland/) General Practitioners (GPs) are the primary healthcare providers in Ireland. They are usually the first point of contact for individuals seeking medical… 2 min read - ### [Emergency Health Services](https://www.movingtoireland.co/guides/healthcare/emergency-health-services/) In Ireland, emergency health services are operated by the Health Service Executive (HSE). If you require urgent medical attention, there are several… 2 min read - ### [Children's health](https://www.movingtoireland.co/guides/healthcare/childrens-health/) Children in Ireland have access to a range of healthcare services. Many of these services are free, while some require payment. 2 min read · For Parents Keep going ## Get the full healthcare roadmap in the app Moving to Ireland turns 99 guides into a personal checklist. 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