Brits abroad warned they may face big medical bills without an EHIC

Tuesday, 05 July 2011 01:29

British holidaymakers heading to Europe this summer have been warned they may face substantial medical bills if they do not have a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).

Research by moneysupermarket.com revealed more than half of Brits (58 per cent) are unaware of the benefits of having an EHIC, while a third wrongly believe that the E111 will cover them, despite these being phased out in 2006.

EHICs entitle UK citizens to the same state-provided medical treatment as a local resident receives in other EU or European Economic Area (EAA) countries and is available for free through the NHS website.

According to moneysupermarket.com, people should always check their card is in date, as they are only valid for five years.

Bob Atkinson, travel insurance expert at moneysupermarket.com, said: "Brits hitting Europe this summer without an EHIC could end up facing a hefty bill if they need medical care while they're on vacation.

"An EHIC is your 'pass' to get free or reduced cost medical treatment in any EU or EEA country. Holidaymakers will suffer unexpected financial pain if they don't ensure they have the right documents and produce them when seeking treatment."

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