Ardee Additction Treatment Centre Says Patients Are Being "Left Behind" Due to Soaring Costs - 04/06/2026

One of Ireland's leading addiction treatment providers is warning that rising health insurance premiums and shrinking levels of cover are making it increasingly difficult for people to access vital addiction services.Smarmore Castle has responded to the latest Health Insurance Authority report, which found that average premiums increased by more than 10 per cent last year, while many policies offered reduced benefits. The centre says the trend is leaving addiction patients behind at a time when demand for treatment remains high.The organisation is also calling on major insurers to expand access to addiction treatment, arguing that many consumers may be unaware of the limitations in their cover until they seek help. It says barriers to securing agreements with some insurers are ultimately restricting choice and access for patients and families.Keith Cassidy, Executive Director of Smarmore Castle, joined us on The Agenda this morning to discuss this in more detail. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.