Do you remember the E111 form you were supposed to get if you travelled in Europe? I can see all those shaking heads!

Well, the good news is that it doesn’t matter any longer as the E111 form was replaced on 1st January 2006 by a new European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).

This new card, which is valid for up to 5 years, entitles you to the same level of health care in the country you’re travelling in, as would be enjoyed by a resident of that country. It covers free and discounted healthcare plus emergency medical treatment and applies to all the EEC countries plus Norway, Switzerland, Iceland and Liechtenstein. But be aware that this might not include all the treatment you get free in the UK under the NHS.

Nevertheless, it’s important to have an EHIC as it could save you time, money and a great deal of hassle if you’re unlucky enough to need medical attention. It cuts through some of the red tape you would be faced with if you were relying just on the medical provisions of your travel insurance policy.

Furthermore, in many areas of Europe, the best medical attention is still reserved for those with private insurance cover. Private insurance also bypasses those long hospital queues – after all who wants to spend their holiday not only ill, but queuing as well!

The other point to be aware of is that nationalised hospital facilities may be many miles away from your holiday location whereas private medical and dental clinics are to be found in many tourist areas catering primarily for holidaymakers.

Remember that private travel insurance covers you for much more than just medical expenses. Holiday cancellation (due to prior illness), loss of luggage or individual items are all insured.

We do recommend all travellers get an EHIC and comprehensive travel insurance. After all, you’ve saved up for ages for the holiday and if something goes wrong you shouldn’t have to worry about the financial implications.

The best travel insurance bargains are to be found online. Try searching on your favourite search engine for “travel insurance”. Even better, click on Travel Insurance on this web site and save time and money!

We say, get travel insurance and get peace of mind.

How to get a European Health Insurance Card
The card is free from any Post Office or by phoning 0845 606 2030. You can also apply online at the Department of Health website at www.dh.gov.uk/travellers