VHI aims to launch lower cost dental plan

THE VHI is hoping to capitalise on the recent Government pullback from subsidised dental services by launching a new dental plan.

The health insurer already has a dental plan in place, costing more than €200 a year. Its new, cheaper alternative, which will be available from April 1st, will cost from just €10 a month. The plan is aimed at consumers who will see a significant increase in the cost of dental care following the Government’s decision in the Budget to reduce the benefits available to tax payers under the PRSI Dental Treatment Benefits scheme.

While not as extensive as the VHI’s existing dental plan, under the new entry-level scheme members will be able to claim back 50 per cent of the cost of cover for basic treatments such as fillings and tooth extractions. They will also be able to claim 50 per cent back on emergency treatment, and up to 40 per cent cover for major procedures such as root canal treatment and dentures.

The cost of investigative and preventative treatment will also be included in the plan, with cover of up to 70 per cent, while children will be able to avail of additional cover for examinations and sealants.

The VHI is the only insurer in the marketplace to offer a specific dental plan.

Although both Aviva and Quinn Healthcare offer some level of dental cover across all of their schemes, they told The Irish Times that they do not currently have plans to launch specific dental cover products.