"medically necessary treatment at the local rate"
Experts urge UK travellers to verify their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) to guarantee complete travel protection.
Those who fail to renew their cards or apply for a GHIC in time may find themselves unprotected during emergencies abroad.
Brits planning holidays in Europe or other destinations covered by health insurance agreements are urged to ensure their EHIC is valid.
If the EHIC has expired or is about to, Brits are urged to apply for the GHIC to avoid unexpected and pricey medical costs abroad.
The EHIC was replaced by the GHIC in 2020 following Brexit.
Existing EHICs remain valid until their expiry date.
As EHICs are valid for five years, many issued before Brexit will expire in 2025. Hence, a significant surge in GHIC applications is anticipated.
Why Do the Cards Matter?
The EHIC and GHIC provide UK residents access to state-funded healthcare during trips to EU countries and other select countries like Australia.
The cards ensure emergency and essential medical treatments are covered under the same conditions as local citizens.
It is important to remember not all state healthcare is free in all countries.
Under post-Brexit travel rules, healthcare access in the EU has become more dependent on having a valid EHIC or GHIC.
Without a valid EHIC or GHIC, Brits risk incurring substantial medical bills for emergency treatment abroad.
For example, a broken leg in Spain could cost over £25,000.
Moreover, surgery and medical evacuation from Greece could exceed £80,000.
Healthcare in some European countries, even for the smallest of injuries, can be expensive.
The EHIC and GHIC offer vital healthcare coverage for UK travellers.
Is the Card Enough?
The card can be used to get state healthcare that cannot reasonably wait until you return to the UK. This includes things like:
- Emergency treatment
- Visits to A&E
- Treatment or routine medical care for long-term or pre-existing medical conditions
- Routine maternity care (excluding planned births)
Whether treatment is medically necessary is decided by the healthcare provider in the country UK travellers are visiting.
Some treatments might require pre-arrangement, and the card doesn’t cover everything.
It is important to note the following for both cards:
- Do not cover private healthcare
- Do not cover medical repatriation (being flown back to the UK)
- Ski or mountain rescue
- Cannot provide special assistance for extended stays due to accidents or illnesses
CEO of Quotezone.co.uk, Greg Wilson, stated:
“Remember, the card is not a replacement for travel insurance.
“It allows you access to medically necessary treatment at the local rate of the country you are in.
“So it is important you have a relevant and accurate insurance policy to protect you before travelling, especially if you have a pre-existing condition.”
Single mum Shamima*, who was looking forward to planning a trip with her young son, told DESIblitz:
“I was hoping to take my son somewhere soon, been saving and saving.
“I didn’t know about the cards and will get one; I can’t risk not having one.
“But even paying the same rates as locals could be tricky for me. I’m going to have to research where we can travel to.
“My budget has very little flexibility to it for unexpected expenses; I need to save for additional insurance.”
Health insurance and the need for it can be forgotten in the excitement of going on holiday, but it remains important.
Renewing Your EHIC or Applying for a GHIC
Brits can apply for a GHIC up to nine months before their current EHIC expires.
You can apply for a new UK EHIC instead of the GHIC if you have rights under the Withdrawal Agreement.
Applications are free via the NHS website.
When applying for the GHIC, the NHS website advises:
“Avoid unofficial websites – they may charge you a fee to apply.”
The GHIC is valid for up to five years.
Travel insurance experts advise allowing ample time for the card’s arrival.
Typically, 15 working days, particularly during the busy holiday season.
UK travellers need to remember that physical cards are required when travelling.
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