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Fears over expiring health cards (EHIC)

Thursday, 26 March 2009

Holidaymakers are being urged to renew their European health insurance cards (EHIC) as millions are due to expire by the end of the month.

Although nearly three in five people claim to have an EHIC, 68% of these do not know when it runs out, says a poll for the Department of Health.

By the end of this month, some 3.3m cards will have expired since September 2008.

Although nearly three in five people claim to have an EHIC, 68% of these do not know when it runs out, says a poll for the Department of Health.

The survey also suggests many people who fall ill when abroad do not seek help for fear of the costs.

This is despite the free or reduced cost healthcare offered by the EHIC.

The card provides access to healthcare in all 25 European Union countries, plus Iceland, Norway, Switzerland and Liechtenstein, on the same terms as the country's own citizens.

By the end of this month, some 3.3m cards will have expired since September 2008.

Warning! There are a number of organisations charging people for an EHIC Card, do not part with money as the card is FREE to those who qualify... visit the official government website at www.ehic.org.uk to apply or visit your local (UK) post office

Unnecessary bills

GMTV doctor Hilary Jones, who is fronting the Department of Health campaign, said: "If you're travelling in Europe, it is vital that you carry a valid EHIC, as well as comprehensive travel insurance.

"The last thing you want to be thinking about when you're on holiday is paying unnecessary medical bills, which could cost thousands of pounds.

"The EHIC card will give you peace of mind that you'll be looked after if something does go wrong - but only if it is in date."

EHICs were introduced in August 2005 and fully replaced the old E111 healthcare form from January 2009.

An EHIC can be obtained online and is usually delivered within seven days.

An European Health Insurance Card can be obtained easily online by visiting the official EHIC website, click here

Article Source: BBC News Website . 26th March 2009.

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Last Updated ( Thursday, 26 March 2009 )