A basic health insurance policy is set to cost over €10 a month more next year due to pay rises and other increases, the Telegraaf reported on Thursday.

The paper bases its claim on government sources, who suggest the €10 monthly rise will be included in the health ministry budget, due to be announced next Tuesday.

The government determines the make-up of the basic healthcare insurance policy and insurers are free to compete on price, top up premiums and other issues such as choice of hospital.

Last year the government said premiums would rise by €2.75 a month but most rose by between €3 and €8.

Currently a basic policy costs around €127 per month, plus an own-risk element of €385.

Health insurers have to publish their premiums for the following year by November 12, ahead of a six week change-over period during which people can change provider.

Some 1.1 million people changed health insurance company during the annual window for switching providers at the end of last year.