European Health Insurance Card

Travel news advice: UK holidaymakers to Europe are putting themselves at risk by failing to apply for, or renew their European Health Insurance Card.

The European Health Insurance card entitles you to reduced cost or free health care in most European countries. Which also reduces the need for medical insurance for Europe..

If you’re travelling in Europe, it is vital that you carry a valid EHIC, as well as comprehensive travel insurance.

The last thing you want to be thinking about when you’re on holiday is paying unnecessary medical bills, which could cost thousands of pounds.

To avoid unnecessary private medical bills, always seek out state-provided medical care, and whenever possible present your EHIC before treatment.

You will need to be particularly careful if the arrangements have been made by a hotel or travel representative as sometimes they will recommmend a private healthcare provider.

You should also always carry details of your travel insurance policy with you.

Some European health systems expect you to pay your bill upfront and then claim a refund using your EHIC. You should always try to apply for your refund before you return home.

Should you need to make a claim once you return to the UK call the Overseas Healthcare Team (Newcastle), 0191 218 1999 (Mon-Fri, 8am-5pm)

A Department of Health survey showed that nearly three in five people claim to have an EHIC, but 68% of these don’t know when it expires.

The research also reveals a staggering 50% of British travellers have become ill or injured on holiday and 35% of these have delayed, medical treatment until they return home.

The main reasons given for not seeking treatment abroad are concerns about the potential cost and lack of travel insurance.

The DoH is warning almost 3.3 million EHICs will have expired by the end of March 2009.

Travellers with out-of-date EHICs who require medical treatment will have to cover the cost themselves or claim on their travel insurance.