Travel Insurance

The arrangements for accessing medical care whilst on holiday in Europe have changed. This article explains but still advocates taking out private travel insurance.

Hands up all those who remember the old E111 medical forms you were supposed to have if you travelled in Europe? I can see all those blank faces!

Well, great news is that it doesn't matter any more. The E111 form was replaced at the beginning of January 2006 by a new European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).

This EHIC is valid for up to 5 years and entitles you to the same level of medical care in the country you're travelling in, as would be enjoyed by the residents of that country. The card covers discounted and free medical care including emergency treatment, and applies to all the EEC countries plus Switzerland, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein. But be aware that the treatment you're entitled to might not include all the treatments you get free of charge under the National Health Service here in Britain.

Nevertheless, we believe that it's wise to carry a EHIC as it could save you time, money and a great deal of hassle if you're unlucky enough to need medical attention.

Whilst we've been discussing medical care, don't forget that private travel insurance covers you for much more than just medical expenses. Most policies will even pay for you to be flown home to the UK if you're really ill. Holiday cancellation (due to prior illness), holiday curtailment, loss of luggage or individual items are all aspects normally covered by the insurance.

To be as safe as possible, we recommend that all travellers get a European Health Insurance Card and comprehensive travel insurance. After all, you've saved up for ages for the holiday and if something goes wrong the last thing you want is to be worried about the financial implications.

Information about the European Health Insurance Card

The European Health Insurance Card is free from any Post Office or by phoning the Department of Health on 0845 606 2030. You can also apply online at the web site run by the Department of Health. The web address is www.dh.gov.uk/travellers

As with most insurance, the best travel insurance bargains are to be found on the Internet.

We say, no matter how you arrange it, get travel insurance and get peace of mind.

	Travel Holiday Insurance Our aim is to provide you with travel insurance cover, service and rates that are hard to beat. Travel Insurance comprehensively covers your travel requirements, offering world-wide protection. http://www.edwards-associates.co.uk/frames/travel.htm
	Caravan Insurance No matter what kind of caravan insurance you require or caravan you own, you can be assured that you Shield Total Insurance caravan insurance will give you complete peace of mind. http://www.shieldtotalinsurance.co.uk/

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