The Essential Guide to Insurance for a French Family Walking Holiday

Understanding Health Insurance Needs for Your Trip

The Role of EHIC

For UK travelers, the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is a must-have, providing access to state-provided healthcare during your stay in France. This card allows you to receive treatment under the same conditions and at the same cost as French nationals. However, it's important to note that the EHIC covers only a portion of medical costs and does not include private healthcare or costs such as a mountain rescue in ski resorts or being flown back to the UK.

Why You Need Additional Travel Insurance

Despite the benefits of EHIC, it does not cover all potential medical expenses. For instance, EHIC typically covers about 70% of doctor's fees, leaving you to pay the remainder out-of-pocket. Moreover, certain services like ambulance transportation or extended hospital stays may incur additional charges. For these reasons, securing comprehensive travel insurance is essential to cover gaps left by EHIC. A good family travel insurance policy not only complements EHIC but also covers other risks like trip cancellations, lost luggage, and travel delays.

Common Injuries and Health Concerns on Walking Holidays

• Sprains and fractures: Often occurring from slips or falls.
• Repetitive strain injuries: Such as Baker’s cysts, common with continuous walking.
• Environmental issues: Hypothermia or heatstroke can occur depending on weather conditions.

Older adults and those with pre-existing joint issues are particularly susceptible to injuries, while children and younger family members might face challenges with extreme temperatures.

Navigating Healthcare in France

Doctor Visits and Hospital Stays

If you need medical attention while in France, presenting your EHIC can reduce the upfront costs significantly. For hospital visits, EHIC often prevents the need for any payment at the time of treatment, though a co-payment of about 20% might still apply. For extended hospital stays, a nominal fee of around 16 euros per night is charged, which is not covered by EHIC.

Handling Prescriptions

Prescriptions issued by a doctor during your holiday are generally covered under EHIC, provided they are filled at a pharmacy within the French national healthcare system. It's advisable to check if the pharmacy accepts EHIC to avoid unexpected expenses.

Preparing for Your Trip

Before departing, ensure every family member has an up-to-date EHIC and verify the specifics of your travel insurance policy. It's crucial to understand what is and isn't covered to avoid surprises. Additionally, consider the following tips:

• Check coverage details: Especially for activities you plan to engage in.
• Understand the claims process: Know how to file a claim if you need to use your insurance.
• Carry necessary documentation: Keep your EHIC and insurance details accessible at all times.

By adequately preparing and understanding the insurance requirements, your family can enjoy a safe and enjoyable walking holiday in France, with peace of mind knowing you’re well-protected against potential medical expenses. For more detailed information on EHIC and traveling in Europe, visit the NHS website and the French public health portal.