Almost half the population is covered by private health insurance, with many families paying up to €3,000.

With nearly one million people set to renew their policies at this time of year, Irish Independent personal finance editor Charlie Weston told us what to look out for.

Charlie says you shouldn't feel obliged to renew your existing plan just because it has gone down a little bit.

As there are around 340 different plans on offer, you may be able to do better.

Charlie recommends asking your health insurance provider for equivalent cover. There are a number of reasonably priced corporate plans which are marketed to companies, but which you are entitled to ask for:

VHI Company Plan Plus Level 1.3

Irish Life 4D Health 2

Laya Simply Connect