Ever since February 1st, 2020, the day when the United Kingdom left the European Union, citizens of the UK had only one question in mind – will their EU medical insurance cards be valid when they visit the countries in the EU.
Some of the British people who haven’t visited the EU since Brexit are still a bit confused when it comes to this topic. This is exactly why we talked to the experts from the insurance site Forsakrat och Klart and they were able to clear things up for us. Here’s what they had to say.
The Deal Made On 24. December 2020
Considering the situation with the COVID-19 and all the health risks associated with this virus, the UK citizens wanted to be sure whether or not their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) will be valid after the Brexit. The deal that was made on 24. December 2020 states: The British can use their European Health Insurance Cards until their expiry dates.
Once those cards expire, the government will issue a new Global Heath Insurance Card (GHIC). This card will replace the EHIC for most UK citizens.
What Is EHIC And How Does It Work?
At the moment, the EHIC entitles the citizens of the United Kingdom to state-provided medical treatment in case they fall ill or have an accident in any country that is a member of the European Union. However, this card will also grant them medical treatment in countries that are not part of the EU, like Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein.
One of the best things about the European Health Insurance Card is the fact that it covers pre-existing medical conditions and routine maternity care, not just emergency care. What does this mean exactly? Well, people who suffer from chronic illnesses will also be given medical attention if they require it during their stay. For example, men and women who require dialysis on a regular basis, can rest assured that they will receive treatment in the country they are visiting and that they will be treated as they would be at home.
What is a GHIC?
In case your EHIC has expired, you should apply for its replacement and get the new UK Global Health Insurance Card – GHIC.
This card will cover chronic or existing illnesses and routine maternity care. Of course, it will take care of any emergency treatment costs, too. However, if you require treatments like dialysis or chemotherapy you will have to arrange them before you go on your trip. The card will cover the costs, but this is the only way to make sure you’ll get the treatment at the place you’re staying.
The bad news is that UK citizens won’t be able to use GHIC in Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, or Switzerland. You should also know that the GHIC is not an alternative to travel insurance, therefore, make sure to purchase travel insurance.
Forsakratochklart.se
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