Going abroad this summer? Most of us are smart, and arrange travel insurance before we set off just in case there are problems with transport, health, or personal belongings going missing.
As part of this, many travel articles often briefly refer to ‘getting yourself an EHIC’, a European Health Insurance Card, so we thought it would be a good idea to go into a bit more detail about them. They have a number of benefits and a few limitations, and there are some related scams that you need to avoid.
What does an EHIC give you?
The EHIC replaced the E111 in 2006. It is completely free of charge to get one.
A European Health Insurance Card entitles you to the following:
- Medical treatment for illness and emergencies if you are unwell or injured during a trip to the European Economic Area (plus Switzerland).
- Treatment for chronic conditions or existing illnesses
- Routine healthcare during pregnancy (provided you have not gone abroad for the purpose of giving birth)
To check what’s covered in each country of the European Economic Area, visit the handy guide on the NHS website.
If you’re taken ill abroad and have any EHIC-related questions, there’s also a helpline you can call on 00 44 191 218 1999.
Are there any drawbacks to the EHIC?
The most important thing to remember is that the card does not entitle you to free treatment in private hospitals and clinics. You must go to a state healthcare provider instead.
Your EHIC card is not a substitute for general travel insurance, and you may not be covered for dangerous sports, or things like mountain rescues in ski resorts.
It can only be used while you’re on holiday or business trips, so don’t rely on it if you’re going abroad for longer periods, for example, to study, to take up a job offer, or to have any planned health treatments.
It’s also essential to know that having an EHIC doesn’t automatically entitle you to free treatment in each country – it simply entitles you to state healthcare as though you were a resident of that country. Sometimes it’s free, sometimes there’s a fee to pay and it depends on the local rules. If you are asked to pay you might also be able claim a refund before you return home.
If you need to use your EHIC, remember that the hospital staff should not retain your card when you leave. Anecdotal reports suggest that not all hospital workers understand the EHIC system fully, so make sure you know your rights in this area.
How can you get one?
If you’re normally resident in the UK, and are of British, other EU/EEA or Swiss nationality, you are automatically eligible for an EHIC. Residents of the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man are excluded.
Most people apply for their card online, which can be done via the official website. Your card should arrive within seven days after application.
You can also apply by telephone by calling the automated service on 0845 606 2030.
You’ll need your NHS or National Insurance (NI) number to apply, and if you’re travelling with children, they each need their own card.
Avoiding scams
If you’ve decided to get yourself an EHIC, make sure you only use the official website if you’re buying online. There are several scam websites out there that will charge you a fee.
Remember that the card is free, so you should never have to part with any cash to obtain one.
{Image: Jessica Keating Photography}
