Revealed – Top 10 countries where UK holidaymakers claim emergency medical expenses

Research by Allianz Global Assistance has found that UK holidaymakers who travelled in 2016, on average, claimed £4,000 in emergency medical assistance.

Topping the list of countries where expenses were claimed most frequently was Spain (32%), followed by the US (12%) and Thailand (11%). The average claim for the top 10 countries was a little over £5,000. In the US, the average was £17,000.  

According to the Association of British Insurers (ABI), emergency medical treatment accounted for 54% of all claims last year for a total of £199 million in payouts.

“Unfortunately, policyholders often underestimate the cost of medical treatment abroad,” commented Barry Smith, underwriting manager UK and Ireland for Allianz Worldwide Partners.

He added: “We are aware of a medical assistance claim for a policyholder in the US where the current estimated cost is circa £800,000. While claims of this magnitude occur infrequently, it is reassuring to know that your travel insurance policy provides the protection to cover such potentially life-changing events.”

Smith noted that even if a policyholder has a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), it will not cover all costs.

Read more: What does European Health Insurance Card cover?

“That said, UK holidaymakers travelling to Europe should make sure they take advantage of the free EHIC, which allows them to go to a GP or state run hospital within the EU and receive treatment like a local,” he added.

The EHIC is not a replacement for insurance, stressed Smith.

“It’s an added extra. And of course it won’t help those travelling further afield,” he said.

Here are the top 10 countries and the average costs:

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