I was reminded of the importance of the free European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) last week as it hit the news following the refusal of some Spanish hospitals to accept it.
I remember finding mine the other month, noticing it had expired, then TOTALLY forgetting about it.
Although Spain appears to be trying to get out of paying medical costs for British tourists who need treatment, an EHIC is vitally important and you should get one AS WELL as your travel insurance.
If I had applied for Mrs T’s EHIC before our trip to Amsterdam, the hospital dash following her febrile convulsion would have been a lot cheaper!
So, if you haven’t got an EHIC for you or you baby, or your husband (Cal doesn’t appear to have ever applied for one) then DO IT!
Here is why
It is free – you can apply online at this link (beware of websites which try to charge a fee). Each family member needs a separate one. You can add children and husbands as dependants on the application form.
It entitles you to emergency medical treatment in EU countries (as well as Switzerland, Norway, Iceland and Lichtenstein) at the same cost as local residents so you don’t have to claim on your travel insurance.
Do I still need travel insurance?
3. YES. It is important you also get travel insurance as the EHIC only covers you for state-run hospitals and depending where you go, these may not be available. The EHIC is also only a medical provision, you need travel insurance for lost possessions, cancellations etc.