European Health Insurance Cards (EHIC) will lose their validity overnight in the event of a no-deal Brexit , travellers have been warned.
If Britain withdraws from the UK without an agreement on October 31, thousands could find themselves without cover abroad, leaving them at risk of a huge medical bill in the event of an emergency.
EHIC cards, which are free to apply for, allow British citizens to access state-provided medical treatment in the European Economic Area, along with Switzerland, when they travel with their card to hand.
Depending on the country, healthcare is either free or at a reduced cost.
But, if the UK Brexits without a deal, EHICs will cease to be valid, leaving holidaymakers to pay for any treatment they may require. If a deal is agreed, EHICs should remain in operation until December 2020.
The Government has stated that it wants to keep the EHIC as part of future trade negotiations with the EU. However, only four countries have agreed to cover UK travellers if there is no deal.
Spain and Belgium have agreed to continued reciprocal arrangements, and Portugal has passed a no-deal law which means that until the end of 2020, UK tourists will be able access healthcare with a valid passport.
Meanwhile, Ireland will allow UK citizens access to healthcare on the current basis whether there is a deal or not.
Comparison website Go Compare has now issued a warning to holidaymakers on the importance of travelling with sufficient cover.
"If EHICs cease to exist, tourists will have to foot the bill for medical treatment in the countries previously covered by the scheme. If they’re not insured, they’ll have to find the money out of their own pocket – which would be a struggle for most people," explained Sally Jaques from GoCompare.
"Medical costs can quickly escalate. Last year the average insurance medical claim tipped £1,300, but bills can be much, much higher. Insurers have already warned that if EHICs are withdrawn, travel insurance premiums will rise to reflect increases in the costs of medical claims.
"The disappearance of EHICs would hit people with pre-existing health conditions hardest. EHICs cover treatment of chronic or pre-existing medical conditions and consequently, if EHIC arrangements end, people may struggle to get affordable travel insurance for European travel."
GoCompare tips on buying travel insurance
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Don’t just focus on price – make sure the policy meets your needs, covers the destination you plan to visit and any activities you plan to do (e.g. scuba diving, skiing).
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Declare any pre-existing medical conditions, while the cost of cover will be higher, being dishonest would invalidate your cover.
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Don’t leave it to the last minute to buy insurance – otherwise, you will miss out on valuable cancellation cover.
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Use a comparison website to shop around for the best deal. Buying insurance from your holiday provider almost always costs more, and the policy may not cover all your needs.
