A HELPFUL CARD IN EUROPE If you travel to a European Economic Area country, or Switzerland, without a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) you could end up facing a huge bill when you need medical care. Remember – not all European countries run the same system as the NHS, which means you cannot expect to be treated for free. The EHIC card replaces the old E111 form - which was pretty much the same thing. If you are a UK resident, you can apply for the card which entitles you to free or reduced cost care during a temporary visit to any European Union country, as well as Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland. The good thing is that the EHIC doesn’t cost a penny, just apply online. However, it is no substitute for a good insurance policy, as an EHIC won’t cover any private medical care or repatriation to the UK and it’s worth remembering that standards at staterun hospitals and clinics may vary compared to the NHS in the UK.
You must complete an application for each member of the family. The EHIC card is free, but be careful as there are a lot of unofficial EHIC websites out there and they may charge if you apply through them. The card is valid for up to five years. Leave up to two weeks to apply for the card. Things to consider with an EHIC: • In an emergency, tour operators and hotels will often opt for private health care on your behalf, unless you ask them not to, this is not covered. • It includes treatment of a chronic or pre-existing medical condition that becomes necessary during your visit. • The card is of little use in many ski resorts, for instance where medical facilities and rescue teams are run by private firms rather than the state. You can call 112 to contact the emergency services in any EU country.
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