Important Things You Must Know About The Health Insurance Card

EHIC or the European Health Insurance Card comes with a lifespan of five years. This means that around four to five million of these precious alternatives to travel insurance tend to expire every year. But hang on a second, do you know what an EHIC is?

An EHIC entitles you to top quality medical attention and care in majority of the European countries and that too on similar terms as those of a local resident. However, it should not be considered as a replacement for the travel insurance that you need to get for travelling to the European countries. It is indeed one of the most valuable added protections that come with the assurance that you get ready and quick access to proper healthcare services as and when required. In case you get sick or meet an accident while you are holidaying in the European countries, you will be getting either free or reduced cost medical care all because of the European Health Insurance Card.

How does the card work?

First of all, it is important for you to note that the card comes for free. You do not have to pay a single penny for getting this card. The only thing that you need to do is fill out an application form that is available on the official websites of the card issuing authority. Once you get your card, you can use it for a time span of five years. This means that your card is valid for five years after which you will have to renew it. Another important thing that is noteworthy about this card is that it covers just a single individual. People who have children below 16 years of age can include them on their card applications to receive their individuals EHICs. Cardholders can also obtain proper medical attention for pre-existing and chronic conditions while holidaying in the European countries. However, for this, you need to carry your card every time with you. So, do not forget to pop it in your wallet or your bag when you are done with your plans of vacationing.

You must never get your card confused with your travel insurance. Costs of private healthcare will also not be covered by the card. This includes procedures like mountain rescues at ski resorts. Hence, investing in travel insurance along with an EHIC is necessary for every individual looking to stay fully covered while visiting the European countries.

Applying for European Health Insurance Card

Applying for the EU health insurance card is quite easy. It will not take a huge amount of time. The details that need to be provided by the applicant include names, titles, NI/NHS number, pin number for the card and date of birth. Post this, there are a few more details that need to be provided and these include spouse details and contact details. Applications for the card can be availed and submitted online at any reliable source for the card.

The official sites will be reviewing your application and will be sending you detailed emails with proper updates about your application. This way you never remain in the loop regarding the status of your card application.