The Essentials for Stress-Free Travel: Understand Your Health Insurance
Planning your next adventure should be as stress-free as possible, yet many of us may forget a few of the essentials in the build-up. It’s easy to get excited about the fun aspects of your trip such as choosing a destination and planning your itinerary of must-see sights. However, there are also plenty of less-exciting aspects to plan that ensure you’re ready to travel when the big day comes.
One important aspect is the Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) and this is something you ideally shouldn’t set off without. You may already have one, or even the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) which was the previous version. If not, it’s essential to apply early for a new GHIC so that it arrives before you travel. Alongside comprehensive travel insurance for the duration of your trip, the GHIC will ensure you can access medical treatment when you need it most, but don’t worry – below we’ll explain what the GHIC is, how to get one, and why it’s definitely worth having.
What is the EHIC and GHIC?
The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) enabled travellers within the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland access to state-provided healthcare during a temporary stay. This meant that it covered medically necessary treatments under the same conditions as it would for local residents for free or at a reduced cost, excluding private healthcare[i].
The GHIC replaced the EHIC post-Brexit for UK residents on 1 January 2021. Whilst the name changed, it maintains similar benefits. The new GHIC allows access to necessary healthcare in the EU if you ever need it whilst away, covering pre-existing conditions and routine maternity care. However, it is not currently valid in Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein, although the UK government is seeking to “conclude new, comprehensive agreements” for GHIC style coverage[ii].
If you have an EHIC card, it can still be used as long as it is within its expiry date printed on the front. If it is expired, you will need to apply for a GHIC to replace this, ensuring you have continued access to healthcare abroad.
How to Apply for a GHIC
Whether you need to replace your expired EHIC or apply for a GHIC for the first time, it’s straightforward to do. Here’s how you can secure your GHIC for peace of mind before travelling:
- Apply Online –The fastest way to apply for a GHIC is through the official NHS website. If you have trouble doing so, you can contact the Overseas Healthcare Service by completing their online enquiry form[iii].
- Required Documents – You’ll need your National Insurance number and personal details. For family applications, include the details of all family members. Each family member will need their own GHIC.
- Processing Time – You’ll receive an email within 24 hours to confirm if the application has been approved. Once it has, the GHIC should arrive within 15 working days by post. If this doesn’t arrive before you travel, you will need a Provisional Replacement Certificate (PRC) for temporary cover should you need it whilst away.
Applying for a GHIC is free through the NHS, so avoid using any unofficial websites that may charge a fee to do this. Once you have your GHIC, it’s valid for up to 5 years, long enough to fit in a few European adventures.
What Does the GHIC Cover?
Understanding what the GHIC covers is crucial when planning any trips away. Here’s what the GHIC will provide you with and its limitations[iv]:
- Coverage in EU countries – You can use the GHIC in the following 27 EU countries: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Republic of Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain and Sweden[v]. You can also use a UK GHIC in Switzerland, Montenegro and Australia.
- Emergency Medical Treatment – GHIC ensures you receive necessary medical treatment for sudden illnesses or injuries.
- Pre-existing Conditions – It covers treatment for long-term or pre-existing medical conditions, offering peace of mind for those with ongoing health issues.
- Routine Maternity Care – If you travel while pregnant, you can access routine maternity care (not including childbirth) in the EU if you require it during your trip.
- Reduced or Free Healthcare Costs – With a GHIC in hand, healthcare services may be offered at a reduced cost or for free, similar to treatment for residents of that country.
What doesn’t the GHIC Cover?
- Non-EU Countries – GHIC is not currently valid in Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein.
- Non-Covered Services – GHIC does not cover private medical healthcare, ski or mountain rescue, being flown back to the UK, or lost/stolen property.
- Supplementary to Travel Insurance – While GHIC provides significant coverage in eligible countries, it’s not a substitute for travel insurance. Having suitable travel insurance is recommended for coverage on other things like lost luggage, cancellations, and services not covered by GHIC.
Travelling with GHIC – Top Tips
There’s nothing like having peace of mind when you’re away and looking to enjoy yourself, and having a GHIC is a great way to ensure a safer and stress-free travel experience within the EU. However, rather than relying on just this in your pocket, it’s best to keep in mind the following:
Combine GHIC with Travel Insurance – While GHIC provides access to necessary healthcare, it does not cover several critical aspects such as private medical healthcare, repatriation to the UK, or lost/stolen property. Comprehensive travel insurance fills these gaps and can cover you for everything else you might need, especially if you have a pre-existing condition or are planning to do any extreme sports or activities.
Understand Healthcare Systems of Your Destination – Healthcare systems and procedures can vary significantly across the EU. Research how the public healthcare system works in your destination country, including any fees or patient contributions that may be required.
Know What to Do in a Medical Emergency – It’s a good idea to familiarise yourself with the emergency services number in your destination (112 in all EU countries[vi]). Understand the process for seeking medical attention, including how and where to present your GHIC.
Keep Your GHIC Accessible – Carry your GHIC with you at all times during your trip. Consider also keeping a digital copy on your phone or in your email just in case the physical card is lost or stolen. Remember, you can apply for a PRC if you do misplace your card whilst away.
Check the Expiry Date Before Traveling – GHICs are valid for up to 5 years, so remember to ensure your card is valid for the duration of your trip. If your GHIC is near expiration, renew it well in advance of your travel dates. You can apply up to 9 months before it expires.
Be Prepared for Out-of-Pocket Expenses – In some cases, you may need to pay for healthcare services upfront and seek reimbursement later. Keep all receipts and detailed documentation of any medical treatment received abroad.
We know it’s not the most exciting part of planning your next getaway but ensuring you have a valid GHIC before you travel is highly recommended. It’s better to have the peace of mind just in case you ever need to use it, and remember, it only takes a few minutes to do online and is free to do so – as long as it’s through the NHS website.
So what are you waiting for? Apply and get your GHIC well in advance, ensure you are completely covered for everything else with suitable travel insurance, and enjoy your time away.Top of Form
Sources:
[i] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/European_Health_Insurance_Card
[ii] https://www.gov.uk/guidance/uk-reciprocal-healthcare-agreements-with-non-eu-countries
[iii] https://www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/contact-overseas-healthcare-services
[iv] https://www.nhs.uk/using-the-nhs/healthcare-abroad/apply-for-a-free-uk-global-health-insurance-card-ghic/
[v] https://www.gov.uk/eu-eea
[vi] https://europa.eu/youreurope/citizens/travel/security-and-emergencies/emergency/index_en.htm
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