Travel smart: European Health Insurance Card gives access to public healthcare
It provides access to public healthcare in other EU countries on the same basis as local citizens.
It is one of the benefits of Ireland being a member of the European Union.
What is the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)?
The EHIC is a free card issued by the Health Service Executive. It proves that the holder is entitled to receive necessary public healthcare in another European country while visiting for a holiday, a business trip, or study.
"The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is an essential back-up for anyone travelling within the EU," says Patrick Brennan, Health Insurance Expert with NFP Ireland. "It gives you access to public healthcare services if you fall ill or have an accident abroad, often at reduced cost or even free."
The EHIC does not cover private medical treatment, or medical repatriation, or other common issues that holidaymakers face, like flight cancellations or lost baggage.
Dominic Lumsden, spokesman for Peopl Insurance, recommends travellers within the EU bring their European Health Insurance Card with them.
"While it's not a substitute for travel insurance, it's a valuable extra layer of protection, especially if you fall ill or need emergency treatment while abroad."
Key benefits for Irish holidaymakers
Peace of Mind: Holidays should be relaxed and enjoyable, but it is no fun getting sick or injured while abroad. With the EHIC, Irish tourists have access to public healthcare systems in Europe without the stress of high medical costs.
Ease of Access: The card simplifies the process of receiving treatment abroad. Presenting the EHIC at a public hospital or doctor's office provides access to the same services as local people, removing the need to pay upfront or claim reimbursement in many cases.
Cost-Effective: While the EHIC is not a substitute for travel insurance, it can significantly reduce or eliminate the cost of medical care in the event of an emergency. This can be especially useful for minor illnesses or injuries.
Validity across Europe: The EHIC is accepted in all 27 EU member states, as well as Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland.
How to Apply
Irish residents can apply for or renew their EHIC for free through the HSE website or local health office. It's advisable to apply well in advance of your holiday because it takes up to 10 days for the card to be delivered.
"We'd advise holidaymakers to carry both their EHIC and a robust travel insurance policy that covers disruption from protests, strikes, extreme weather, and other unexpected events," says Mr Lumsden, Peopl Insurance.
Mr Brennan says it important to check if your card has expired before heading abroad; it is typically valid for 4 years. "If it's expired, you won't be covered, so it's important to renew in time, which can be done easily and for free through the HSE. Don't leave it until the last minute."
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