The Global Health Insurance Card has replaced the old EHIC and could save you thousands of pounds should you need medical care while travelling on the continent.
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Where can you use the GHIC?
The UK Government launched its new Global Health Insurance Card in January, which gives Brits access to vital healthcare while abroad.
The GHIC replaces the old European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) but is more limited in terms of precisely where tourists can use it.
For now, it only covers EU nations, as opposed to the EHIC (before Brexit), which covered all nations within the ‘European Economic Area’, which included non-EU states like Iceland, Norway and Switzerland.
Earlier this year, the Government said it is working on securing “new, comprehensive agreements on social security coordination, including reciprocal healthcare” with the nations previously covered by the old EHIC.
We have launched a new Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) 🇬🇧
— Department of Health and Social Care (@DHSCgovuk) January 12, 2021
This ensures UK residents can continue to access emergency care in the EU.
EHIC and GHIC cards offer equivalent protection and you only need to apply for a GHIC when your EHIC expires.
▶️ https://t.co/Os2rO7gjYx pic.twitter.com/omdDxTR2K8
What does a GHIC cover you for?
How to use the GHIC
In practice, you should be able to claim your free or reduced cost treatment by simply showing your card to the doctor, dentist or consultant carrying out your treatment.
But as your GHIC cover only applies in state-run hospitals and clinics, (not private ones), be sure it is the state version you’re going to, and if you ask your tour rep for advice on which doctor or dentist to use, make sure they know you’re going to be getting any treatment using your GHIC.
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GHIC or travel policy?
Do I need my GHIC on me to claim?
It’s certainly easier if you do have your GHIC with you, but it’s not essential.
You can instead get a provisional replacement certificate (PRC) to prove your entitlement to the healthcare, by calling Overseas Healthcare Services at the NHS Business Services Authority on +44 (0)191 218 1999, Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm.
When calling, you will need to provide your National Insurance number, your name, address, date of birth, the name of the treatment facility and the email address for the specific department of the medical organisation providing your treatment.
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Applying for a GHIC
Make sure you apply for a free card on the official GHIC website.
These medical cards have previously been a great moneymaker for rip-off merchants, who charge fees of around £9.99 a time to supply them, which is a complete con!
As the NHS application process is very simple, there's no need to pay for 'assistance' of any kind.
Websites that trick you into paying too much for EHICs, driving licences, visas and more
Is my old EHIC still valid?
It’s important to bear in mind that existing EHIC cards are still valid so long as they are still within date, and so can be used if you’re heading into the EU.
You will only need to apply for a GHIC once the EHIC has expired.