Irish people urged not to get caught out travelling in Europe without this essential item

Nobody wants to think about being sick or having an accident while on holiday, but unfortunately it happens. Of course, being in a foreign country when something like this happens sounds like an absolute nightmare.

So, If you're heading abroad this summer, you might want to make sure you have a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) which allows you to access public healthcare in another EU or EEA country for free or at a reduced rate.

You may remember the EHIC being formerly known as the E111 form and it can be life saver when faced with an emergency abroad. 

What countries are covered by the EHIC?

You can use the card when travelling in any EU country or EEA country which includes Iceland, Norway, and Liechtenstein. Switzerland is also covered by the card. It is worth noting that Andorra and Monaco are not part of either union and so the EHIC is not accepted in either of these destinations. 

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Luckily for Irish holidaymakers, Irish citizens have access to healthcare under the Common Travel Area while in the UK and so they are covered for healthcare while visiting. 

What does the EHIC cover?

The EHIC covers free or reduced cost public healthcare in any of these countries. It also covers a temporary stay of up to three months in the country you are visiting, any pre-existing medical conditions, as well as routine maternity care, so long as you are not going there with the intention of giving birth. Students who are there studying abroad are also covered during the academic year. 

What does the EHIC not cover?

The EHIC does not cover any private healthcare costs or any expenses for travelling back to Ireland. It also doesn't cover any ongoing or permanent healthcare or medical expenses if your reason for travelling abroad was to have treatment. 

Handy things to know before you set off on your travels

Each member of your family will need their own EHIC and they are valid for up to four years. There is no charge for applying for or renewing the card which can be done online. 

In some countries, people might have to pay some money towards the cost of services depending on how the state does so with their own citizens. 

If you don't have your EHIC with you when accessing healthcare abroad and you have to pay or if you were charged by mistake, you might be eligible for a refund. If you get in contact with the HSE, they will be able to liaise with the other state.