A leading price comparison website has asked almost 1,500 British travellers about their understanding of the EHIC system, and has found some widespread misconceptions about the system.

Free Treatment Anywhere in Europe?

The survey found that 70% of British people think that EHIC gives them free medical care anywhere in Europe. This is not the case, but it’s understandable why such a large majority or people think this way. In the UK the NHS is free, and many assume that EHIC simply transfers your UK rights to Germany, Spain or Italy. That’s not how EHIC works though. EHIC gives you the same rights as a citizen of the country you are visiting in terms of accessing state healthcare provision. That may very well mean you do get free A&E treatment in Italy or can have an emergency operation in France, but it also means that as Norwegians have to pay 140 krone to see their GP, you will too. And you won’t be able to claim these fees back either. So although EHIC can provide you with free medical care it doesn’t always, and it’s important to at least have a rough understanding of the medical system in the country you are visiting. EHIC will never cover treatment in a private hospital, and in many countries of Europe the distinction between private and state is not as clear as it is in the UK.

Worldwide Treatment

6% of UK travellers were also found to believe that EHIC gives them free treatment anywhere in the world. The name – European Health Insurance Card – should tell you that EHIC is limited to Europe. Not all European countries are covered either, just those which are part of the European Economic Area. Popular holiday destinations like Turkey, although part in Europe and part in Asia, are not in the EEA so EHIC is not valid. EHIC is not valid either in eastern European countries such as Belarus, Ukraine and Russia. There are also some minor yet important other exclusions such as Andorra, Monaco, San Marino and the Vatican City. Parts of the British Isles such as the Channel Islands and Isle of Man are outside the EHIC system too, but have separate reciprocal healthcare agreements with the British government.

Usage Rates for EHIC

One of the most positive figures to come out of the survey is that awareness of EHIC is high, and most travellers are aware that it is something they should have, and that it can save them money if they do need to seek medical attention while away from home. 10% of people questioned had used their EHIC in the past five years to get medical help, saving themselves thousands of pounds in travel insurance bills or costs for treatment without the EHIC. So if you’re planning a European holiday or business trip in the next few months, don’t leave the application for your EHIC to the last minute. It could save you thousands.