<
Travelling in Europe? Make sure you take the new EHIC or European Health Insurance Card. This card has replaced the old E111 as of January 2006. It entitles you to free or reduced medical care in most of Europe (EEA) and Switzerland. Insurers may waive excesses for medical treatment if you use your EHIC to get treatment. Keep the card in a safe place as it is permanent and does not go out of date. The EHIC card is available free to all residents of the UK. You can apply for it either online (https://www.ehic.org.uk), by phone (0845 606 2030) or simply pick up an application form from the Post Office. You need to apply three weeks before travel to Europe. An EHIC is not a substitute for travel insurance, and should not be considered as a cheap alternative. It provides cover in an emergency, and is only valid in EEA countries. For complete coverage you should always take out your own travel insurance policy as well, and tell the insurer you are taking an EHIC with you.
