EHIC (Previously E11)

I have included this today as I have recently noticed a few companies springing up on the Internet charging a much as £40.00 for you to apply for an EHIC (European Health Insurance Card), previously form E11. Do not pay for this, this is a free service and the applications can be made in 3 ways:

• Apply by phone - call 0845 606 2030. Your card will be delivered within 10 days.
• Apply by post - complete a printed form, available from your local post office, and send it to EHIC Applications, PO Box 1115, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE99 1SW. Your card will be delivered within 21 days.
• Apply on line - visit NHS Website, there should be a link in this page.

If you are travelling in Europe you should apply for each family member travelling. When you apply, for each person, you will need:

• their first names and surname (family name),
• date of birth, and
• NHS number, or national insurance (NI) number.

If you're a UK national (citizen) who normally lives in the UK, an EHIC entitles you to free, or reduced-cost, medical treatment when you're visiting Europe. However, it's not valid if:

• you're going to live in Europe, or
• getting medical treatment is the main purpose of your trip.

The EHIC lasts for five years. The EHIC entitles you to state-provided medical treatment only. Private treatment is not usually covered.
If you need treatment due to an accident, or illness, it will be provided free, or at a reduced cost. However, some treatment that is free under the NHS in the UK will not necessarily be free in other countries. You may have to make a contribution to the cost of your care, but this can usually be covered by private travel insurance.
The EHIC covers treatment for chronic diseases, or existing illnesses. If you're pregnant, it also covers routine maternity care while you're away.