toby2111,
I would think it is still worth their while to switch to another provider for better cover despite their age and pre-existing conditions.
They will have to serve a 2 year upgrade waiting time just in respect of their pre-existing conditions. They will have the same cover as before
for these illnesses until the 2 years is complete. After that its full cover on the new plan all the way.
For any new illnesses that arise, they will have full cover on the new plan straight away from day one, no waiting.
I chose Laya plans in the following list of suggestions as there is full cover for hip or knee replacement surgery or cataract surgery in private or
hi-tech hospitals. This surgery is not fully covered with VHI or Irish Life and is a typical surgery required by older people.
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Essential Health 300 covers all public,private and Beacon hospital + cardiac in 3 hi-tech hospitals. No Blackrock Clinic or Mater Private cover
except cardiac.
All other plans shown cover all public, private and 3 hi-tech hospitals plus good day to day if required.
There is no waiting to serve for extra day to day cover with Laya, regardless of age.
I wouldn't be inclined to drop health insurance altogether and to stay on their current plan would be pointless.
Regards, Snowyb