If you’re planning to travel within Europe, you might have heard about the European Health Card. The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is a vital document that allows you to access state-provided healthcare during a temporary stay in any of the EU countries, as well as Norway, Switzerland, Iceland, and Liechtenstein. It’s not just a piece of paper—it’s your access to emergency treatment and routine medical care abroad.
Benefits of the European Health Card
Medical Care During Your Stay
Having a European Health Card helps ensure that you will receive medically necessary healthcare while traveling. This includes treatment for pre-existing conditions, accidents, and even routine maternity care. With an EHIC, you might receive public healthcare similar to local residents, potentially at lower costs or no charge in certain situations.
Peace of Mind for Families
Traveling with family members? An EHIC covers each individual, meaning you won’t have to worry about their healthcare needs either. Just make sure every family member has their own card before you leave. If you’re traveling with a child, they’ll need a card even if they’re covered by a parent’s health insurance.
Useful in Emergency Situations
Accidents happen. Whether it’s a slip, a fall, or a sudden illness, your EHIC helps provide access to emergency treatment, helping simplify the payment process during your medical care. It’s particularly useful for short trips, making it a valuable addition to your travel checklist.
The Difference Between EHIC and GHIC
The EHIC isn’t the only health insurance card available for UK citizens. After Brexit, the UK government introduced the Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC). The GHIC offers similar coverage in EU member states but does not apply in non-EU countries like Switzerland or Norway. Make sure to check if your current card expires soon and whether a new UK EHIC or GHIC would better suit your travel needs.
What Healthcare Services Does It Cover?
- State Healthcare: EHIC and GHIC cards cover state-provided healthcare, including necessary medical treatment and routine care.
- Maternity Care: Routine maternity care is included, making it a safe choice for expectant mothers traveling in Europe.
- Pre-Existing Conditions: If you have pre-existing medical conditions, you’re still covered. This is a big relief for people needing continuous treatment.
- Emergencies: From sudden illnesses to accidents, your EHIC or GHIC will handle the medical costs.
What It Doesn’t Cover
While the European Health Card offers extensive coverage, it’s not all-inclusive. It won’t cover private health insurance, private medical care, or repatriation costs if you need to return home. In these cases, travel insurance is recommended to cover costs not included in your EHIC.
How to Apply for or Renew an EHIC or GHIC
Applying for a European Health Card is simple. You may apply online through your country’s health service website. For UK citizens, the application process for both EHIC and GHIC is handled by the UK government. If your card has expired, make sure to renew it before your next trip. A new UK EHIC is still available for those eligible under the Withdrawal Agreement, while others will need the UK GHIC.
Provisional Replacement Certificate
What if you forget your card at home or lose it while traveling? In such cases, you will get a Provisional Replacement Certificate (PRC). Contact your health service to request this temporary document. It serves the same purpose as the EHIC, ensuring you get the treatment you need without any hassle.
Tips for Using Your Card Abroad
- Check Coverage Before You Go: Not all countries have the same healthcare agreements. For example, Switzerland and Norway are covered, but you’ll need to double-check other non-EU countries.
- Keep It Up to Date: Make sure the expiry date on your card is current. Traveling with an expired EHIC could leave you without healthcare access.
- Travel Insurance Is Still Important: While the EHIC or GHIC covers a lot, having travel insurance ensures you’re protected in case of theft, private healthcare needs, or repatriation.
Who Is Eligible for the EHIC or GHIC?
Anyone residing in the EU or the UK may apply for a European Health Card. Non-EU citizens who are family members of an EU citizen can also apply. If you’re from Northern Ireland or have an Irish passport, you’re eligible too. Remember, each family member needs their own card.
What to Do If Your Card Isn’t Accepted
Even with a valid EHIC or GHIC, some hospitals or healthcare facilities may ask you to pay upfront. In these cases, keep your receipts and contact your local health service for a reimbursement claim. It’s rare, but it can happen, so staying prepared is wise.
Keep Your EHIC Handy
Whether it’s for routine care or unexpected emergencies, the European Health Card remains valid across EU countries and certain non-EU countries. Keep your card in your wallet or travel documents folder. If you’re traveling soon, make sure you have up-to-date information on what your card covers. It’s a small item, but it offers huge benefits for your peace of mind and health.
The European Health Card makes traveling in Europe much less stressful. In case of emergency or sudden illness, having your European Health Card in hand can help reduce time, costs, and concerns during unexpected situations. Be sure to review your options, check the coverage, and keep your card ready for your next trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the European Health Card cover?
The European Health Card provides healthcare cover for essential medical care in the European Union and European Economic Area countries.
Do I still need medical insurance if I have the European Health Card?
Yes, you should have medical insurance as the card only covers essential medical care and does not replace comprehensive travel insurance.
Can I use the European Health Card in all European Union countries?
Yes, the European Health Card is valid in all European Union and European Economic Area countries, providing access to healthcare cover during temporary stays.
Published by: Nelly Chavez
