UK Ferry Tickets

Around seven million people will travel abroad this festive season, many of them to Europe. Statistically, hundreds will get ill or injured and will be in for a nasty shock.

Holders of an E111 form, available free from post offices, have been entitled to free or reduced cost medical treatment in 27 European countries.
But the E111 form runs out at midnight on New Year’s Eve and if you haven’t got the replacement, the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), you will have to pay for hospital care.

The Post Office is running a campaign to encourage everyone to get an EHIC and a spokeswoman said: “As soon as the clock chimes midnight on New Year’s Eve, that’s it, the E111 won’t be valid. There will not be a transitional period and you could end up with a hefty bill for treatment if you don’t have the EHIC.”

Many people believe that if they have comprehensive travel insurance they don’t need an EHIC, but that’s not necessarily true.

Some insurance companies may refuse to pay out on hospital treatment because they can argue that travellers should have been responsible and got hold of the EHIC form.

Although essential, the EHIC is not a substitute for travel insurance because it does not provide cover for legal costs, theft or delays.

Like the E111 form, the EHIC document is available free from post offices. Prospective travellers can also apply at www.dh.gov.uk/travellers, or by telephone on 0845 606 2030.

However, unlike the E111 form, the EHIC must be verified by the Department of Health, a process that can take several days. So, don’t delay, apply for the form today.

Guest Article by Jeremy Skidmore

Friday, December 9th, 2005