Brits urged to check EHIC
Tuesday, 14 Oct 2008 11:31
Brits travelling abroad are putting themselves at risk of expensive medical bills if their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) runs out, the Department of Health has warned.
Currently, 28 million Britons have an EHIC. However, by the end of October, nearly 1.5 million EHICs will have expired.
The card entitles the holder to free or reduced-cost healthcare in Europe but has an expiry date – something 52 per cent of Brits are unaware of.
Without an EHIC, which replaced the E111 form three years ago, holidaymakers in Europe will not be covered for basic medical care in the event of an illness or accident.
Most insurers insist Brits carry their EHIC as part of the policy, so travel insurance is not a replacement for an EHIC, and in some cases cover could be at risk without having one.
Paul Siddell, overseas healthcare programme manager at the Department of Health, said: "Many Brits are putting themselves at unnecessary risk by not checking their EHIC expiry date. If you're travelling in Europe it's vital that you carry an EHIC, as well as comprehensive travel insurance.
"If you find your EHIC is out-of-date, it is very easy to renew it online or over the phone and it will be delivered within ten days. Card holders can renew up to six months in advance of expiry so we are urging people to check their EHICs now."
To renew or obtain an EHIC, log on to
www.nhs.uk/healthcareabroad or call 0845 606 2030.