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Laya Healthcare (part of AXA)

Laya Healthcare

85Score
★★★★☆4.3

Customer satisfaction · 690K members

Ireland's most innovative health insurer(2025)

Laya Healthcare is Ireland's second-largest health insurer with approximately 690,000 members and ~28% market share. Acquired by AXA Group in August 2023 for EUR 650M, it is known as Ireland's most innovative insurer, offering unlimited free Digital GP consultations and free cover for the second child and beyond on certain plans.

Overall Score

85/100

Founded

1997

Headquarters

Cork

Type

private
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Key Metrics

Market Share

~28%

Parent Company

AXA Group (acquired Aug 2023 for EUR 650M)

Digital Gp

Unlimited free online consultations

Childrens Cover

Free 2nd+ child under 18 (certain plans)

Editorial Ratings

Ireland's most innovative health insurer(2025)

Rating: ~28% market share; AXA-backed since August 2023 (max: Market leader)

85Health

Coverage Highlights

  • ✓Digital GP service: unlimited free online consultations
  • ✓Free cover for 2nd+ child under 18 (certain plans, unique in Ireland)
  • ✓Acquired by AXA Group in August 2023 (EUR 650M)
  • ✓Ireland's most innovative health insurer
  • ✓Strong digital experience (app, online tools)

Pros

  • ✓Best digital experience (Digital GP, app, online tools)
  • ✓Free children's cover on certain plans (unique)
  • ✓Now backed by global AXA Group
  • ✓Innovation leader in Irish market

Cons

  • ✗Smaller network than VHI
  • ✗28% market share (significantly behind VHI)
  • ✗Brand has changed multiple times (BUPA -> Quinn -> Laya -> AXA Laya)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Laya Healthcare now owned by AXA?

Yes. AXA Group acquired Laya Healthcare in August 2023 for EUR 650 million. Laya continues to operate under its own brand while benefiting from AXA's global financial backing.

What is Laya's Digital GP service?

Laya's Digital GP service offers members unlimited free online GP consultations, providing convenient access to medical advice without needing to visit a clinic in person.

Does Laya offer free children's cover?

Yes. Laya is the only Irish insurer offering free cover for the second child and beyond under 18 on certain plans, making it particularly attractive for families with multiple children.

Has Laya Healthcare changed its brand before?

Yes. The company has operated under several names: BUPA Ireland (1997-2007), Quinn Healthcare (2007-2012), Laya Healthcare (2012-present), and is now sometimes referred to as AXA Laya following the 2023 acquisition.

Quick Summary

InsurerLaya Healthcare (part of AXA)
Country🇮🇪 Ireland
Overall Score85/100
Satisfaction4.3/5
Members690K
Typeprivate
Founded1997

Other Insurers in Ireland

VHI Healthcare

public

90

/ 100

Irish Life Health

private

80

/ 100

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