Don't rely on the EHIC, travellers warned
Thursday, January 29, 2009People going abroad within Europe have been warned not to simply rely on their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to cover emergencies.
InsureandGo founder Perry Wilson said that many people assume they will covered fully by the card - even though this may not be the case - and that as a result, they choose to go without travel insurance.
However, he pointed out that it is the policy of many countries to simply patch people up, which could leave holidaymakers out of pocket if they need more extensive treatment.
"You have to make sure that you''ve got enough [travel insurance] realistically to cover you for any eventuality to come back," Mr Wilson urged.
The EHIC was introduced in January 2006 to replace the old E111 form.
The cards can be used to cover emergency medical treatment for holidaymakers within the European Economic Area and can be obtained online or at the Post Office.
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