As more UK residents go abroad to travel, experts are advising them to check the validity of their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) to ensure that they have appropriate health coverage while abroad, DESIblitz reported – with insurance brokers urged to recommend further travel insurance coverage where needed.
In Q2, UK residents made an estimated 25.3 million visits outside of the UK and spent approximately £13 billion on trips, according to the Office for National Statistics.
Experts warn that travellers, without a valid EHIC or GHIC, may face medical expenses if they require treatment overseas. Those planning trips to Europe or other destinations covered by health agreements are encouraged to confirm their EHIC is still valid. If it has expired or is due to expire, they should apply for a GHIC to avoid unexpected healthcare costs.
The EHIC and GHIC provide UK residents with access to state-funded healthcare during travel to EU countries and select destinations, such as Australia. They allow travellers to receive emergency and essential medical treatment under the same conditions as local residents, the report said.
The GHIC replaced the EHIC in 2020 following Brexit, though existing EHICs remain valid until their expiry date. Many EHICs issued before Brexit will expire in 2025, leading to a likely increase in GHIC applications.
The EHIC and GHIC cover necessary state healthcare that cannot wait until the traveller returns to the UK, including emergency treatment, visits to A&E, treatment for long-term or pre-existing conditions, and routine maternity care, excluding planned births. The healthcare provider in the country visited determines what is considered medically necessary. Some treatments may require pre-arrangement, and the cards do not cover all medical expenses, the report said.
The EHIC and GHIC also do not cover private healthcare, medical repatriation to the UK, ski or mountain rescue, or extended stays due to illness or accidents – making travel insurance vital.
UK residents can apply for a GHIC up to nine months before their EHIC expires, the report said. Those covered by the withdrawal agreement may apply for a new UK EHIC instead of a GHIC.
The GHIC is valid for up to five years, and travel insurance experts recommend allowing enough time for delivery, typically 15 working days, particularly during peak travel periods.
