If you've travelled abroad in recent years then you're probably familiar with the free European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).
But Brits are being made aware that the cards are being phased out and replaced by the GHIC, the Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) - and applying for one could end up saving you a fortune.
Both cards do pretty much the same thing and although you can still use an existing EHIC, but if you don’t have one at present then you’ll only have the option of applying for a GHIC in future.
They provide you free or discounted health care when travelling out of the UK and while they don’t act as insurance, they can save travellers a lot of money in healthcare bills, should you need it.
Our sister website 2Chill has looked at exactly how they work, what they entitle you to, and how to get your hands on one.
What do the EHIC and GHIC do?
The cards may have different names but they act in much the same way.
They are free, last for five years, and entitle those with one to cheaper medical care in EU member state countries.
If you need medical care in Europe and you have one of these cards, you will only pay what a local person who lives in the country would pay.
This includes state-run hospitals and doctors and it means if a local would be able to get free treatment, you will too.
However, if they would usually have to pay for this, you will be charged the same rate they would be. This could still be far less than going to a private medical centre.
Residents of EU countries are also able to benefit from free NHS treatment if they are visiting the UK and have one of the cards.
However, you can’t use it if you are specifically travelling abroad for a medical reason, such as an operation.
How to apply for a card
You can apply for one of the free cards via the Government website.
Make sure you apply at least two weeks before you are due to travel, so your card has time to arrive.
You will never have to pay for this card, although lots of websites may offer to apply for you, for a fee.
Avoid these and only go through the genuine website to make sure you don’t have to pay and you’re getting the right card.
You need to be over 16 to apply for a card, although every member needs their own, so a parent or guardian can apply for children.
Is the card a replacement for insurance?
Although it’s called a health insurance card, the card in no way replaces travel insurance.
All it does is lower the cost you pay for medical care in EU countries.
With travel insurance you are usually covered for medical costs of at least £1million among other things, including repatriation back to the UK if you need it.
With travel insurance you’ll also be covered if your holiday company goes bust or for things like theft, damage, or loss of any of your belongings.
