EHIC - don't leave home without it AND travel insurance!

If you're heading off on holiday this summer make sure you get a new EHIC form to cover medical costs in some countries. But, be warned, it is not a substitute to a comprehensive travel insurance policy.

What is EHIC?

Phased in by the Department of Health from August 2005 and available free to all UK travellers, the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is a credit card-sized replacement for the old style 'E111' form. It acts as part of a reciprocal health agreement between the UK and EU member countries as well as Switzerland, Iceland, Norway and Lichtenstein. But as millions of holidaymakers set off for well-earned summer breaks, research from YouGov reveals that 64% of British adults are oblivious to card despite it being an essential item to pack for your trip. Worryingly, 58% of people believe the E111 will still cover them for free or reduced cost medical treatment on the continent, but this is no longer the case.

What does it cover?

If you or any of your dependants are suddenly taken ill or have an accident during a visit or holiday to any EU country, the EHIC entitles you to free or reduced-cost emergency treatment. Only state-provided NHS-style emergency treatment is covered, and you will receive treatment on the same terms as nationals of the country you are visiting. Private treatment is generally not covered, and state-provided treatment may not cover all of the things that you would expect to receive free of charge from the NHS. Some countries, for example, do not provide dentistry as a state benefit.

Who is eligible?

People who are ordinarily resident in the UK are entitled to a UK-issued EHIC but it is not valid for people who are going to live abroad. Unlike the E111 form which covered the whole family, the EHIC only covers an individual. All individual travellers are therefore required to carry their own EHIC, regardless of age. Each card is valid for three to five years.

Where can I get one?

You can get an EHIC application form in several ways; at the Post Office on a travel agent, online or by telephone. If you pick up a form at a Post Office branch you can fill it in there and then and either post it yourself or use the Post Office's "Check & Send" service. Post Office staff will check the form has been completed correctly and send it off for you. Your card will then be posted to your home address within 21 days. The EHIC Check & Send service costs £2 per application form.

Or you can fill in an EHIC application form online at www.dh.gov.uk/travellers and your application should be processed within seven days. You can also apply for a card by calling the EHIC Application Line on 0845 606 2030. If you do this your application should be processed within 10 days. Be wary of companies or websites charging a fee and offering to apply for an EHIC for you; the application form is simple to complete and the cards are free.

Is the EHIC a substitute for travel insurance?

The EHIC card is no substitute for travel insurance. It only offers relatively low level financial reimbursement for basic medical bills, and holidaymakers should not view it as a replacement for a travel insurance policy. For example, in some countries you may be required to pay for the cost of medicines or to pick up the bill for your hospital bed. You may also have to pay if you need an ambulance.

As well as offering much more comprehensive cover for medical treatment, travel insurance protects you financially for lost or stolen possessions, holiday cancellation, repatriation, personal liability and a range of other potentially costly possibilities. It is vital to have travel cover if you are going overseas. Some insurers will waive the excess on your policy if you tell them you hold an EHIC, which could save you as much as £150 in the event of a claim.

Robin Reames, claims director at Swiftcover says, "British holidaymakers should think twice before travelling without adequate insurance. The facts speak for themselves and shouldnt be ignored. Travel insurance can be purchased quickly and with ease online."

13 July 2006 © Moneyextra.com

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