Surgical Institute Dublin (SID), a pioneering Consultant partnership model in Irish healthcare, today announced the successful completion of a €4.7 million fundraise comprising equity and debt. This milestone paves the way for the opening of a state-of-the-art ambulatory surgery centre in Ballsbridge, dedicated to advanced dermatological surgery and minor procedures, set to commence operations in July 2026.

Unlike many private healthcare facilities in Ireland, which are often backed by private equity or international investment funds, SID represents a groundbreaking large-scale Consultant partnership. 20 leading Consultants across specialties including dermatology, Mohs surgery, plastic surgery, oculoplastics, pathology, and medical oncology, have invested in the equity raise, fostering a collaborative, clinician-driven approach to care. Once operational, SID will have in excess of 30 specialist Consultants practising at the facility.

SID's new purpose-built facility in the heart of Ballsbridge will feature four minor procedure theatres, a dedicated Mohs laboratory, a recovery area, a nurse admission suite, administrative office space, ancillary rooms, and consulting rooms tailored for ‘See-and-Treat’ clinics, and surgical dressing clinics, with mole mapping and patch testing services launching later this year.

“SID is committed to delivering excellence in advanced dermatological surgery and minor procedures in the right setting,” said Conor Murphy, CEO of SID. “Our centre brings together Dublin’s leading Consultant Dermatologists, Plastic Surgeons, Oculoplastic Surgeons, Pathologists and Medical Oncologists under one roof, working collaboratively to provide truly integrated, specialist care. By focusing on advanced ambulatory surgery, we are addressing the inefficiencies of traditional inpatient hospital environments while significantly expanding access to high quality, Consultant-delivered surgical services. In addition to offering gold standard Mohs micrographic surgery, the only private capacity currently available in Dublin, SID will provide comprehensive skin cancer management, complex dermatological surgery, ‘See-and-Treat’ pathways and direct access clinics, strengthening Ireland’s overall surgical capacity and ensuring patients receive the highest standard of multidisciplinary care.”

Mohs surgery, renowned for its precision in treating skin cancer, will be a cornerstone of SID's offerings. The centre aims to alleviate pressure on the Irish healthcare system, where dermatology ranks as the second-longest waiting list. SID also plans to collaborate with the public sector to help reduce these waiting times, providing much needed support to overburdened services.

Founded by Consultant Dermatologists Prof Caitriona Ryan and Prof Nicola Ralph of the Institute of Dermatologists, alongside healthcare entrepreneur Conor Murphy, SID has secured agreements with Vhi and Irish Life Health. These partnerships enable access (subject to plan cover) for over 70% of Ireland's insured population to this first-of-its-kind centre of excellence.

Construction works are approaching completion, with the facility on track to open in July 2026. SID anticipates creating 25 jobs initially, scaling to 50 within two years, contributing to local employment and economic growth.

Prof Caitriona Ryan commented, “as dermatologists, we have witnessed firsthand the growing gap between demand and access to truly specialist skin cancer and dermatological surgery care. SID was created to close that gap. Our vision is to build a centre of excellence where Consultant-led, multidisciplinary expertise drives every decision, where innovation is embraced responsibly, and where patients receive timely, outcome focused care in a setting designed specifically for complex skin surgery. SID empowers Consultants to lead, collaborate and shape a better surgical model, one that prioritises clinical excellence, accessibility and long-term patient outcomes.”

Prof Nicola Ralph added, "this partnership model ensures that clinical expertise drives decision-making, free from external investor pressures. We believe that when Consultants are directly involved in shaping both the clinical and operational direction of a centre, it leads to better patient outcomes, stronger collaboration, and a more sustainable model of care. By bringing together specialists across multiple disciplines in a purpose-built environment, we can deliver highly efficient, evidence-based treatment pathways while maintaining the highest standards of safety and quality. We’re excited to bring advanced dermatological surgery closer to patients in a modern, efficient setting, where timely access and Consultant-led care are at the core of everything we do."

Mr Mark Byrne, Director of Healthcare Partnerships, Vhi said “as Ireland’s largest health insurer with over 1.2 million members Vhi is pleased to partner with Surgical Institute Dublin who are committed to providing access to high quality, Consultant-led care for our members focused on advanced dermatological surgery and minor procedures. This new state-of-the-art facility will provide additional capacity and will provide our members with a broader range of options ensuring they get faster access to expert care delivered efficiently.”

ENDS

• Vhi, in partnership with the Irish Youth Foundation, is calling on youth organisations in Dublin, Cork, Kilkenny, Galway, Limerick and Donegal to apply for funding to support youth mental health and build resilience
• €85,000 in funding available to youth organisations in 2026
• Over €444,000 invested in 54 youth organisations to date, supporting more than 37,700 young people
• Applications can be made via Irish Youth Foundation until midnight on Friday, 15^th May

23^rd April 2026 – Ireland’s first Olympic Taekwondo athlete and long-standing community advocate, Jack Woolley, has once again partnered with Vhi to launch the 2026 Vhi Health and Wellbeing Fund, encouraging youth groups across Ireland to apply for funding to support young people’s mental health and wellbeing.

Now entering its sixth year, the fund reflects the shared commitment of Vhi and the Irish Youth Foundation to strengthen the mental, physical and social wellbeing of young people across Ireland. The initiative provides vital resources to youth organisations delivering early intervention programmes that help young people tackle anxiety, build resilience and develop long-term confidence to thrive.

Since its launch in 2020, the Vhi Health and Wellbeing Fund has invested over €444,000 in 54 youth organisations, directly supporting more than 37,700 young people through targeted one-to-one and group-based programmes that are specially designed to improve mental wellbeing and emotional resilience.

This year, Vhi will make €85,000 available to non-profit and youth organisations located in Dublin, Cork, Kilkenny, Galway, Limerick and Donegal, with a continued focus on community-led initiatives that create safe, inclusive and supportive environments for young people.

To mark the launch of this year’s fund, two-time Irish Olympian and Vhi Health and Wellbeing Fund Ambassador, Jack Woolley, met with some of the 2025 grant recipients to hear first-hand how the fund has helped young people navigate mental health challenges, build confidence and develop healthier coping strategies. 

Speaking at the launch event in Dublin, Jack Woolley said: “I’m really proud to be back with Vhi and the Irish Youth Foundation for the launch of the 2026 Vhi Health and Wellbeing Fund. Over the past year I’ve taken some time away from competitions to reset and focus on my own wellbeing, and that has reminded me how important it is to have that right support around you, especially when you’re young and still figuring things out.

Youth groups were an integral part of my life growing up. They kept me grounded, helped me build resilience, and played a big role in shaping who I am today. That’s why I feel so connected to this work and why I’m passionate about supporting it. Young people are facing pressures that can be tough to navigate, and support from organisations like Vhi and the Irish Youth Foundation is more vital than ever. I would encourage every youth group to take a look and apply.”

Brian Walsh, Group CEO, Vhi, reflected on the fund’s significance at the launch of this year’s fund, stating: “We are delighted to launch this year’s Vhi Health and Wellbeing Fund and continue our strong partnership with the Irish Youth Foundation. Over the past six years, we’ve seen how community-based programmes can make a meaningful difference in supporting young people’s wellbeing.

Supporting communities and the next generation is an important part of our sustainability ambition – Healthy People, Healthy Planet, Healthy Business and by investing and closely working with youth organisations, we’re helping to build stronger communities and a healthier future for Ireland.”

Speaking at the launch of this year’s fund Sarah Edmonds, CEO at Irish Youth Foundation said “We’re delighted to partner with Vhi once again this year to continue the important work of the Vhi Health and Wellbeing Fund. Now over half a decade into our partnership, we’ve seen the real difference this support can make for young people across the country.

Increasingly, young people are experiencing anxiety, and youth organisations are often the first—and sometimes only—place they can turn for support. This fund enables frontline youth workers to deliver early-intervention programmes that build resilience and create meaningful, long-term impact.”

Applications for 2026 Vhi Health and Wellbeing Fund are now open and will close at midnight on 15^th May. Youth organisations across Cork, Dublin, Donegal, Galway, Kilkenny, and Limerick are invited and encouraged to apply.

For more information, please visit - https://iyf.ie/grants/

ENDS/

Vhi paid €1,838m in healthcare costs for members in 2025 as demand for care continues to rise

PMI membership reaches 1.23 million – 11th consecutive year of growth

8th April 2026 - Vhi today published its Financial Results for year ending December 31^st, 2025. In a year of increased healthcare utilisation, Vhi paid €1,838m (2024: €1,738m) in healthcare costs on behalf of members.

The company reported a surplus after tax of €71.2m (2024: €36.3m) on Gross Earned Premium of €1,972m (2024: €1,836m). This is underpinned by a stable operational performance combined with continued increases in demand for healthcare, and in the cost of delivering that care. Vhi is unique in the Irish market, operating solely for the benefit of its members, therefore all surplus generated is reinvested to strengthen member services and support the delivery of better healthcare.

Private health insurance membership increased for the 11th consecutive year, rising to more than 1.23 million members, an uplift of over 12,000 on 2024. Income from Vhi’s multiline portfolio, of International Health, Travel, Dental and Life insurance, increased to €33m (2024: €31m) a 7% year‑on‑year rise. The results demonstrate continued confidence in Vhi’s combined insurance and healthcare offering.

Capital and reserves increased to €1,040m (2024: €953m) at year end, and the solvency capital ratio for the insurance business stood at 182%, underscoring a strong and prudent capital position. This financial position supports Vhi’s ability to invest for the long term in healthcare access, digital services and service development. It also provides members with confidence in Vhi as a stable and trusted healthcare partner.

Delivering Healthcare

In 2025 members accessed more care, more often, and across a wide range of clinical settings. Cancer (€366m), orthopaedic (€315m) and cardiac (€292m) care continue to represent the largest categories of claims paid on behalf of members. Vhi continued to expand access through its own healthcare services and in 2025 delivered more than 603,000 (2024: 510,000) healthcare interactions. These included urgent care, diagnostics, primary care, specialist clinics and Hospital@Home. Vhi 360 Health Centres supported growing demand for urgent and planned care, with services such as dermatology, paediatrics, physiotherapy and mental health continuing to expand. The launch of the Vhi 360 Health Centre Galway was a key milestone during the year, improving access to care for Vhi members across the West of Ireland.

In 2025, Vhi continued to invest in digital platforms and capabilities to improve the member experience and support easier, more connected access to care. These investments are focused on removing friction from everyday interactions and helping members manage their healthcare more simply.

Digital services, accessed through Vhi’s award winning app and website, are now a routine part of how members engage with Vhi. During the year, Vhi’s Online Doctor service supported more than 150,000 healthcare interactions, while Snap & Send, Vhi’s digital claims submission service, was used by members to submit more than 2.1 million everyday healthcare claims, covering routine benefits such as consultant, GP, and allied health professional visits.

Approximately 95% of primary care claims are now submitted digitally, underlining members’ preference for simpler, paper‑free ways of managing everyday healthcare.

Key Financial Results for Y/E 31 December 2025

·        Gross Written Premium: €2,008m (2024: €1,879m)

·        Gross Earned Premium: €1,972m (2024: €1,837m)

·        Claims Paid: €1,838m (2024: €1,738m)

·        Surplus After Tax: €71.2m (2024: €36.3m)

·        Capital & Reserves: €1,040m (2024: €953m)

·        Solvency Capital Ratio: 182% (2024: 177%)

Commenting on the 2025 results, Brian Walsh, Group CEO, Vhi said:

“Vhi’s purpose is to support our members live longer, stronger, healthier lives. In 2025, we paid €1,838m in care as more people accessed more healthcare across hospitals, community services and digital settings. Healthcare demand in Ireland will continue to rise, driven by demographic change, chronic disease and healthcare innovation. Vhi is shaping how these challenges are met, changing how and where care is delivered. Vhi exists solely for the benefit of members, and our capital position enables us to plan for member needs and deliver access and better healthcare for our members. We are focusing on prevention, early intervention, digital access and community‑based services so we can continue to meet our members’ healthcare needs for generations to come.

“Our vision is to be a health partner for our members and to play an active role in shaping the future of patient‑centred healthcare in Ireland, working collaboratively with partners across the system to support long‑term sustainability.”

 ENDS

RCSI and Vhi to study the impact of student-led community health clinics

Tuesday, 31 March 2026: RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences and Vhi have entered into a new partnership to study the impact of student-led community health clinics. The research will examine the outcomes for patients, students and local communities.

The StEP (Student Engagement and Partnership) Health Research Partnership will focus on RCSI’s student led interprofessional community health clinic, which is the first-of-its-kind in Europe.   RCSI students from dentistry, medicine, pharmacy and physiotherapy, supported by qualified health professionals, will work together to deliver health checks and clinics in partnership with RCSI Engage and local residents and community groups in Dublin city. These free clinics provide accessible healthcare services to local communities, while enabling students to participate meaningfully in person-centred care.

Vhi is the industry partner for the research evaluation, and the study will use anonymised information from the clinics to assess outcomes and inform future models of care and education. Access to preventative healthcare remains uneven, particularly for low-income and marginalised communities. By addressing this gap, these clinics respond directly to unmet healthcare needs, offering monitoring of blood pressure, cholesterol, blood glucose and other key health indicators in a community setting. Working collaboratively across professions and under the supervision of experienced clinicians, students gain invaluable hands-on experience in community-based care, while community partners benefit from integrated health support.

Dr Muirne Spooner, Deputy Dean of Interprofessionalism and Community Engaged Learning and academic lead of the StEP Health Research Partnership, said: “We are delighted to announce our partnership with Vhi on this important research. Interprofessional student-led clinics have been shown to support learners in preparing for their work in clinical practice. We are looking forward to contributing to the understanding of the ways all stakeholders; learners, community partners, patients and faculty experience student-led clinics.”

Professor Tracy Robson, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs at RCSI, welcomed the partnership, saying: “RCSI is proud to partner with Vhi on this important study. As Ireland’s only university entirely dedicated to medicine and health sciences, we believe in pioneering innovative community well- being collaboration opportunities that also give our students the best possible education. This project reinforces our commitment as the number one ranked university in the world for our contribution to the UN Sustainable Development Goal 3, Good Health and Well-being by recognising that community partnerships benefit our students in offering meaningful clinical experience while supporting local residents in positive health behaviours.

Dr Lynda Keaveney, Group Healthcare Officer at Vhi said: “Vhi is partnering with RCSI to evaluate how student led clinics can improve access to prevention and community care. This work supports our focus on sustainable healthcare, putting people and planet at the heart of what we do, and will help guide future models of care that prevent illness and support people earlier and closer to home. This partnership will also help to develop future clinicians and builds on Vhi’s community partnerships. Advancing this work together reflects our shared dedication to healthcare innovation that delivers value across clinical, academic and community settings.”

RCSI’s interprofessional student-led community health clinics are supported by the RCSI Engage strategy which aims to enhance human health and education by building reciprocal partnerships between RCSI staff and students and our local and national communities.

ENDS

About RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences

RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences is ranked first in the world for its contribution to UN Sustainable Development Goal 3, Good Health and Well-being, in the Times Higher Education (THE) University Impact Rankings 2025. 

Founded in 1784 as the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland with responsibility for training surgeons in Ireland, today RCSI is an innovative, not-for-profit, international university exclusively focused on driving improvements in human health worldwide through education, research and engagement.

RCSI is among the top 300 universities worldwide in the World University Rankings (2026) and has been awarded Athena Swan Bronze accreditation for positive gender practice in higher education. 

In 2026, RCSI opened Humanarium, a new public exhibition space and café at the heart of RCSI, exploring healthy futures for all, at 118 St Stephen’s Green in Dublin city centre. Through a rolling programme of free exhibitions and events exploring health sciences and medical research, it is a place for everyone to join conversations about how to live longer, healthier and happier lives.

Visit the RCSI Expert Directory to find the details of our experts across a range of healthcare issues and concerns. Recognising their responsibility to share their knowledge and discoveries to empower people with information that leads them to better health, these clinicians and researchers are willing to engage with the media in their area of expertise.

About Vhi

Vhi is Ireland’s leading health insurer and health services provider. Founded in 1957, Vhi provides access for its members to quality private healthcare through a range of insurance plans and services. Through Vhi Health & Wellbeing and the Vhi 360 Health Centres, members can access urgent care (walk in for minor illness and injury), diagnostics, paediatrics, health checks, Hospital@Home and specialist clinics. Vhi’s purpose is to help its members live longer, stronger, healthier lives.

4^th March 2026: Registration is now open for the 2026 Vhi Women’s Mini Marathon, the world’s largest all-female event of its kind. Now in its 44^th year, the 10km event will take place on Sunday 31^st May at 12:30pm, with close to 30,000 women expected to walk, jog or run through Dublin City Centre on the day.

Entrepreneur Aimee Connolly, broadcaster and presenter Katja Mia, health and fitness coach Nathalie Lennon and content creator Clóda Scanlon return this year as Vhi ambassadors, encouraging women of all fitness abilities to join them on the 31^st May for what promises to be an inspiring and uplifting day.

New Research Highlights the Benefits of Movement for Women’s Health

To mark this year’s launch, Vhi commissioned research with 500 female runners to highlight the positive impact of running and walking on women’s physical and mental wellbeing. Key findings reveal:

• 74% of women say walking or running improves their overall physical health.
• 73% say it boosts their mood; 53% say it helps manage stress and 68% cite mental health benefits as a key reason they run or walk.
• 64% say running or walking helps manage PMS or menstrual symptoms, but 74% say they have been prevented from exercising due to symptoms; 89% feel these symptoms impact their confidence when exercising.
• Among women who have given birth, 80% say running or walking supported their recovery.
• 77% believe signing up to a mass participation event would help them stay motivated and 82% say joining a community run group would help them reach their goals.

Support from Sign-Up to Start Line

With campaign theme “Because You Can,” Vhi is aiming to inspire women to take that first step, whichever way they choose to participate. The Vhi Women’s Mini Marathon website now features an AI assistant to guide participants through registration, answer FAQs and provide instant event support.

Vhi members can continue to claim a refund on their entry fee via Snap & Send in the Vhi App, helping to make healthy choice that little bit easier. Participants will also have access to training plans for walkers, joggers and runners, plus healthy, nutritious recipes developed by Vhi ambassador Nathalie Lennon. These are all available at vhiwomensminimarathon.ie and on @VhiWMM social channels.

New for 2026, Nathalie Lennon will also host a Vhi Run Series; a three part programme with 3km, 5km and 8km running events to help women build their distance gradually across the 12-week campaign in a supportive community environment. Further details will be announced in the coming weeks. 

Participants can also access certified training and health tips from Vhi health experts on Vhi Verified at vhi.ie/blog.

Every participant will receive a Vhi Women’s Mini Marathon finishers medal and an official event t-shirt is available as an opt-in during registration. Early sign up is advised. Last year’s event sold out in record time.

Aimee Connolly, Vhi ambassador and entrepreneur said: “The Vhi Women’s Mini Marathon is such a powerful event and I’m proud to be a Vhi ambassador. It’s not about pace - it’s about participation, community and proving to yourself that you can do challenging things. That’s what ‘Because You Can’ means to me.”

David O’Leary, General Manager of the Women’s Mini Marathon, said: “After two unprecedented sell-outs, the excitement around this year’s Vhi Women’s Mini Marathon is already building. We’re seeing an incredible running boom and a real cultural movement of women coming together to challenge themselves, support one another and build community.

Event day is an unforgettable celebration full of colour, music, laughter and pure joy, and we can’t wait to welcome tens of thousands of participants back for what promises to be the best start to summer. With the support of our fantastic sponsors, we’re ready to deliver another extraordinary event.”

Brighid Smyth, Head of Corporate Affairs in Vhi: ‘Vhi is proud to continue our long-standing partnership with the Women’s Mini Marathon and our commitment to supporting women’s health and wellbeing at every stage of life. The Vhi Women’s Mini Marathon is more than a race; it’s a powerful movement that brings women together in support of each other and their communities.

This year’s theme, ‘Because You Can,’ is about empowering women to take that first step, whatever that looks like for them. It has been fantastic to see so many young women taking part in recent years and making health and wellness a priority in their lives. Our latest research reinforces just how transformative movement can be - for physical health, confidence, motivation and overall mental wellbeing.”

Register now at: http://www.vhiwomensminimarathon.ie

ENDS

28^th January 2026 - Vhi today announced that it will introduce an average price increase of 3% across its health insurance plans from 1^st March 2026. This adjustment is necessary to ensure that we continue to meet the healthcare needs of our members. The cost of delivering healthcare continues to rise as more people access essential healthcare services and the cost of providing those services increases. In 2025, Vhi saw private hospital claims costs rise by approximately 13% and the volume of private hospital claims increase by approximately 8% compared to 2024, reflecting the continued increase in demand and the higher cost of delivering care.

Increasing costs across the healthcare sector both in Ireland and internationally are being driven by factors such as medical inflation, an ageing population, and the introduction of new drugs, technologies, and procedures. We have seen an increase in the number of members accessing healthcare and this increased demand contributes to higher healthcare costs.

Mr Aaron Keogh, Managing Director, Vhi Insurance DAC said “Whilst the biggest contributors to overall claims costs continue to be cancer care, orthopaedic treatments, cardiac care, digestive conditions and psychiatric care, our members have access to healthcare in more ways than ever before, not only in hospitals but also through day care and ambulatory settings.”

He continued “The rising demand for healthcare and the increasing cost of delivering it mean that we must adjust our pricing accordingly. This enables us to maintain the high level of care our members expect and rely on from Vhi. We recognise that health insurance is a significant financial outlay for our members, so we will continue to provide a range of plans at different price points to suit differing needs and budgets.”

In 2025, Vhi delivered over half a million healthcare interactions through its own healthcare services, including urgent care, paediatrics, dermatology, radiology, physiotherapy, hospital at home and women’s health services. We also provided thousands of virtual consultations with GPs, physiotherapists, dieticians, and mental health professionals, ensuring convenient access to care.

Vhi is the only provider in the market that exists solely for the benefit of our members. Any profits made are reinvested to enhance Vhi members’ healthcare and services.

ENDS

Issued by:
Brighid Smyth / Niamh Walker
Vhi Group Services DAC
M: 086 8270905 / 086 608 6764
E: Brighid.smyth@vhi.ie / Niamh.walker@vhi.ie

Examples of Price Changes