The new European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) has brought about much confusion, so here are some tips about how you should go about medical treament in the EEC.

This new health insurance card will provide you with free or discounted medical treatment within any EEC country. It is worth pointing out that carrying a EHIC doesn’t necessarily mean that you will receive free medical treatment in all EEC countries. It is strongly suggested that you visit the Department for Health for a country by country guide for information on your holiday destination. (Department of Health Website)

However, it is also essential that you buy adequate travel insurance before travelling, so that any medical treatment and other expenses will be covered to the amount in your travel insurance documentation.

It is also useful to know that the UK has a reciprocal healthcare arrangement with some other countries and territories outside of the EEC, which means that you are entitled to urgent treatment either at reduced cost or for free. Again, the Department of Health have produced a country-by-country guide of these countries outside of the EEC. (Department of Health Website)

Here are some answers to commonly asked questions:

No – you don’t have to pay for the EHIC it’s completely free.
Yes – the E111 form is no longer useable
No – you don’t get free medical treatment in every EEC country
No – the EHIC doesn’t replace Travel Insurance

If you need any further information or guidance then I strongly suggest that you visit the Department of Health’s Travellers website because it is very informative, easy to read and understand.Department of Health’s Travellers website