European Health Insurance Card: It's free and it can save you money
Added 04/09/2012
If you are travelling within the EU you should take a European Health Insurance Card or EHIC with you. The EHIC is free of charge to residents of the UK. You can apply for an EHIC online, by calling 0845 606 2030 or at your local post office.
The EHIC ensures your right to state provided healthcare at a reduced cost in the EEA (European Economic Area) and Switzerland. (It replaced the E111 form in 2006).
The EHIC is FREE: Beware of websites that charge
The EHIC is entirely free of charge, so beware of unofficial websites that will charge you for applying on your behalf. There is no need to pay for an EHIC card, you can apply online for free on the NHS website or call 0845 606 2030 for more help.
EHIC is not an alternative to travel insurance
The EHIC is not an alternative to travel insurance. It will not cover any private medical healthcare or costs such as mountain rescue in ski resorts, being flown back to the UK, or lost or stolen property.
Therefore, it is important to have both an EHIC and a valid travel insurance policy.
An EHIC can save you money
If you use an EHIC card when receiving medical treatment and it results in a reduction in your medical bills we will waiver the excess on your medical claim. Depending on whether you have a Silver, Gold or Platinum policy this could save you up to £500.
