If you’re anything like me, probably not. In fact I may at one time have known what an EHIC card was, but the details have long been forgotten.
They’re the cards given to us by the UK government which entitle us to free medical care within Europe. It seems that over half or us were totally unaware that they had expiry dates – or at least we’d forgotten the fact.

The result of this is that many of us travelling abroad are at risk of healthcare costs should we become ill or have an accident.

It’s important to realise that the EHIC is not meant to be an alternative to travel insurance. It will not cover any private medical healthcare or the cost of repatriation to the UK. What it will provide is access to the same state-provided healthcare as a resident of the country you are visiting
For these reasons and others, it is important to have both an EHIC and a valid private travel insurance policy. Some insurers now insist you hold an EHIC and many will waive the excess if you have one.

Applying for an EHIC card is simple and free and it’s valid for up to five years. You can apply on-line to the NHS or collect an application pack at the post office. For phone enquiries call 0845 606 2030.

The government is keen that everyone should have an up to date EHIC. Check yours now.