Travelling abroad for whatever reason sometimes brings with it risk and the unexpected accident or illness, which is why it’s always a good idea to carry the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).
The EHIC replaced the old E111 in 2006 and gives the holder access to free medical care or at a reduced cost.
It’s important to remember that the EHIC is not a replacement for healthcare cover for expats.
Entitlement to healthcare will vary depending on where you are travelling within the European Economic Area (EEA) and also in some other parts of the world.
The best thing about the card is that it’s free – do not be fooled into thinking you have to pay for one. There are unscrupulous web sites claiming people have to pay a few when they don’t.
Reclaiming medical costs
Essentially, having the EHIC will give you access to medical treatment to continue your stay in that country until you return home. Pre-existing conditions are also covered – so long as you aren’t heading abroad to give birth.
However, if the birth is unexpected the card will cover the mother and child.
Remember that each country will have a different healthcare system and the card may not cover you for everything that you might find for free on the NHS.
But you should be getting the same treatment as someone who is a resident of that country.
In some countries you will be asked to make a patient contribution, which is sometimes known as a ‘co-payment’ though you may be able to reclaim a payment refund for some of them once you return to the UK.
The EHIC will not cover the holder for any private medical healthcare.
How to get the EHIC online
Some expats try to cut costs by taking out an EHIC and travel insurance when living abroad – but this simply does not give the long term cover required and any claim is likely to be rejected by the travel insurer.
The EHIC will not cover you if you are travelling abroad to receive specific treatment.
And remember that the card will not be valid in those countries which do not have state-funded healthcare like the NHS.
For more information about the EHIC, visit: www.nhs.uk/NHSEngland/Healthcareabroad/EHIC/Pages/about-the-ehic.aspx
Or you can call the Overseas Healthcare Team on (00 44) 191 218 1999.
Health coverage is so important while travelling. It’s easy to neglect, especially when you’re young, but accidents happen!