Got Your EHIC? Reasons You Still Need Travel Insurance

Understanding EHIC: What Does It Cover?

The EHIC is a valuable asset for travelers within the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland, allowing access to state-provided healthcare during temporary stays. The application process is straightforward via the official NHS website. While the card can help reduce or eliminate the costs of necessary medical treatments, its coverage is not exhaustive.

Limitations of EHIC

• Medical Repatriation: EHIC does not cover the costs of returning home if you are seriously ill and need special transport. Such expenses can be exorbitant, often reaching thousands of pounds.
• Private Healthcare: The card only grants access to public healthcare systems. In many cases, these may not meet the service levels some travelers might expect or require.
• Additional Travel Concerns: EHIC does not cover other critical aspects such as trip cancellations, personal belongings loss, or delays, which are typically covered under travel insurance policies.

Why Travel Insurance Complements EHIC

Travel insurance fills the gaps left by EHIC. It is not just about health; it's about ensuring a safety net is in place for various unforeseeable events that could occur while traveling.

Comprehensive Coverage Offered by Travel Insurance

• Repatriation: If you need to be transported back to your home country due to medical reasons, travel insurance can cover the costly charges for medical evacuation.
• Private Medical Care: For access to private healthcare facilities abroad, which can offer faster and possibly higher quality treatment, travel insurance is essential.
• Broader Protection: Coverage extends to aspects such as trip cancellation, theft or loss of personal belongings, and even missed connections. For adventure travelers, specific policies include search and rescue or high-risk activities.

Specialized Needs

• Winter Sports: Policies are available that cover specific risks associated with activities like skiing or snowboarding, including injuries and equipment loss.
• Cruises: Cruise travel insurance can cover unique issues like cabin confinement, missed port departure, and emergency evacuations.

A Perfect Pair: EHIC and Travel Insurance

While the EHIC is a must-have for reducing healthcare costs in Europe, it should never be seen as a substitute for a comprehensive travel insurance policy. Before traveling, ensure both are in place to enjoy a worry-free trip. Research and compare different travel insurance plans to find one that suits your travel needs and complements the EHIC.

Key Statistics and Considerations

• Cost of Medical Repatriation: Can exceed £15,000 depending on the location and medical condition.
• Usage of EHIC: According to the European Commission, millions of EHICs are issued annually, yet many travelers are not fully aware of its limitations.

In conclusion, while the EHIC provides basic health protection within Europe, travel insurance offers extensive coverage that safeguards against a wide array of travel-related risks, ensuring peace of mind. Always check the specifics of your travel insurance policy to understand the full scope of what is covered.