Summary
The arrangements for accessing medical care whilst on holiday in Europe have changed. This article explains but still advocates taking out private travel insurance.

Travel Insurance. Also get a European Health Insurance Card.

Hands up all those who remember the old E111 medical forms you were supposed to have if you travelled in Europe? I can see all those blank faces!

Well, great news is that it doesn't matter any more. The E111 form was replaced at the beginning of January 2006 by a new European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).