Private health insurance premiums will rise by nearly four per cent from April.

Private health insurance premiums will rise by nearly four per cent from April, with the average premium to increase by nearly $200. The government says the average 3.95 per cent increase is the lowest hike since 2001. But the federal opposition has accused the Coalition of prioritising private health providers ahead of the public. Labor's health spokeswoman Catherine King says Australians are already dealing with significant financial strain.

Health insurance cards Source: Supplied