Update on VHI Teachers’ Scheme & Free Health Insurance Comparison
A large number of TUI members have contacted head office in recent days enquiring about the status of the VHI Teachers’ Scheme in the wake of last week’s announcement of an increase in subscription rates
TUI has addressed this issue with the VHI and measures to be taken by members seeking to avoid the increase in the subscription rate are set out below.
In addition, Cornmarket Group Financial Services are offering a free health insurance comparison to TUI members. Details of how this valuable service can be accessed are outlined below.
VHI – increase in subscription rate with effect from 1st February 2011
The renewal date for the Teachers’ Scheme with VHI is 8th March each year.
Any members wishing to avoid the increase in the subscription rate can do so by:
• Leaving the Group Scheme prior to 1st February
• Setting up a Direct Debit for their VHI subscription
VHI have advised that the 10% discount for group schemes will not be affected by members availing of this option.
Members will be required to contact the VHI individually to change their payment method from DAS through the employer to a direct debit.
Members contacting the VHI in respect of this should also enquire about the corporate rate. In some instances this rate may be more beneficial to the member. However, it needs individual consultation with the member regarding their particular circumstances.
The telephone number to contact the VHI is 01 872 4499 or 1850 444 444
Worried about the spiralling cost of private Health Insurance?
Since the 1st January, some health insurance providers have increased the cost of certain health insurance policies. Quinn Healthcare have already increased the premiums on a number of their Adult plans (ranging from 0 - 24%). From the 1st February 2011, VHI will also increase their premiums (ranging 10% - 45%). Surprisingly, VHI’s most popular Plan B Option will increase by 45%. These changes have left many members confused and unsure of their options.
Good News
We would like to inform members that you don’t have to incur extra expense. It is likely that there are cheaper plans with similar cover out there for you which could save you hundreds of euros. There is a myth that it’s not easy to switch providers or that members have to wait for their renewal date. This is not the case - it’s actually hassle-free to switch between all the health insurance companies! There are no waiting periods, no breaks in cover, no deferrals and no exclusions provided you don’t upgrade.
Example of Savings
Teachers who currently hold VHI Plan B Option can make substantial savings by switching heath insurance providers now:
Saving for an individual – up to €737*
Saving for a couple – up to €1,474*
Saving for a family (2 adults, 2 children) – up to €935*
FREE Health Insurance Comparison
Regardless of what plan you are on you can check to see how much you could save with one phone call to Cornmarket. As part of our complimentary Health Insurance Comparison Service we will compare the benefits and prices of the three main health insurance providers (VHI, Quinn Healthcare and Aviva Health). We will then advise you, on the phone and in writing, if you are getting the best deal available in terms of price and benefits.
To avail of your FREE Health Insurance Comparison today LoCall 1890 252 140.
*Savings correct 13/01/11. Figures based on annual savings made by switching 1 individual and 1 couple from VHI Plan B Option and 1 family (2 adults, 2 children) from VHI Parent and Kids Option Plan to Aviva Nurses & Teachers Choice.