Statement from Vhi Healthcare

15th October 2008 - Since the introduction of the medical cards for all over 70’s in 2001 there has been no noticeable increase in cancellations among over 70’s on our hospital insurance plans.In 2001 Vhi Healthcare had 88,989 customers over the age of 70 while today Vhi Healthcare has 121,776 customers.

If customers over the age of 70 who left Vhi Healthcare between 2001 and 2008 as a result of receiving a medical card and can demonstrate this to our satisfaction; we are willing to waive the waiting period, provided they back-date the insurance from the date of cancellation.The reason for the backpayment is to be fair to all those members who continued their cover .

These customers will need to rejoin prior to the 1st January 2009.

ENDS