European Health Insurance Card

European Health Insurance Card

The government has been accused of not making the limitations of the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) clear to travellers and of putting UK holidaymakers at risk.  The accusation followed research by InsureandGo that revealed one in ten UK residents had travelled without insurance in the past 12 months, as they thought they were covered by the European Health Insurance Card.  The research also revealed there was confusion as to what the card covered.

Managing director at InsureandGo, Perry Wilson, said the findings were concerning.  He argued that the word ‘insurance’ should be removed from the card’s title as it could be misleading.  However, the Department of Health website clearly states what the card covers and recommends that travellers also take out private travel insurance rather than rely on the European Health Insurance Card alone.

Our view

This is an extremely valid point.  People should always ensure they have adequate protection both for simple health care treatment whilst overseas.  The reality is that you need travel insurance.

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