If you’re planning to travel to Europe, it’s essential to be aware of the healthcare available and how to access it should you need medical assistance. One way of ensuring that you receive proper medical care while staying within the European Union (EU) is by applying for a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).
The EHIC is an essential document that provides access to state-provided healthcare during temporary stays in any EU country, as well as Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland. In this article, we will discuss the EHIC and how to apply for one.
What is the European Health Insurance Card?
The EHIC is a free card issued by your national health insurance provider which allows you to access necessary medical treatment from state doctors, hospitals, and clinics during your stay in Europe. The card covers routine medical care, pre-existing chronic conditions, and emergency treatments. It also covers maternity care and treatments for ongoing illnesses or pre-existing conditions that require monitoring or management.
However, it’s important to note that the EHIC is not a substitute for comprehensive travel insurance. The EHIC does not cover private healthcare or costs related to lost or stolen property, transportation back home due to illness or injury (repatriation), or non-urgent treatments that can be delayed until you return home.
Who qualifies for the European Health Insurance Card?
To be eligible for an EHIC, you must be insured or covered by a state social security system in any EU country, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway or Switzerland. Nationality itself does not determine eligibility; it depends on whether you are insured under a social security scheme in one of these countries. Each person who requires healthcare access must have their own EHIC – this includes children.
How do I apply for a European Health Insurance Card?
The application process varies depending on your country of residence. You will typically need to apply through the health insurance provider where you are insured:
– EU citizens: Contact your national health insurance provider for information on how to apply.
– UK citizens: UK citizens can apply online through the NHS website.
In some countries, such as the UK, Germany and Poland, applying for an EHIC is free of charge. However, it’s important to check with your specific national health insurance provider as fees may apply in other countries.
When applying for an EHIC online or by phone in your home country, ensure that you give accurate information about your personal details and insurance status. You may be required to provide proof such as National Insurance number (for UK citizens) or social security number (for EU citizens) when applying.
How long does it take to receive my European Health Insurance Card?
It typically takes between two and four weeks for an EHIC application to be processed and arrive at your address. Make sure to allow sufficient time before considering travel plans.
Once my European Health Insurance Card expires or if I lose it – what should I do?
It’s important that you renew your EHIC after it expires – typically after five years from issuance. To renew your card, follow the same procedure as when initially applying through your national health insurance provider.
If your card gets lost or stolen while traveling in Europe, contact your national health insurance provider immediately so they can provide you with a Provisional Replacement Certificate (PRC), which offers the same coverage as an EHIC temporarily until you get home and replace the card.
Having a European Health Insurance Card is crucial when traveling within Europe due to its capability of providing safe access to healthcare during temporary stays in EU member states along with Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland. Ensure that each person traveling has their own valid EU health card before embarking on their trip – better safe than sorry!