A Must have if going on holiday in Europe this year.....FREE Medical care abroad (NHS)- EHIC (European Health insurance card)

I just thought i'd list this to make people aware of it if they dont already know about it, as it is important to carry one of these cards while abroad inase of an emergency, so that you recieve treatment asap and best of all ITS TOTALLY FREE

I Applied online less than a week ago and my families cards have arrived already

Did you know that you can claim back most of your treatment and medication costs if you fall ill or have an accident in Europe? That's as long as you carry a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).

From 1 January 2006 the E111 form has been replaced by the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) so if you are a UK resident, you can apply for an EHIC by any of the means shown below.

The EHIC entitles the holder to free or reduced cost, state-provided medical treatment if you fall ill or have an accident while visiting any country in the European Economic Area (EEA). Please note that an EHIC is not a substitute for comprehensive travel insurance. If you claim medical expenses under your Post Office travel insurance policy and you use your EHIC entitlement, your policy excess will be waived. Check out our great value Post Office travel insurance.

Who's eligible?
You're eligible to use an EHIC if you are a UK resident. Your EHIC is valid for 3-5 years.

Who's covered?
EHICs are issued on an individual basis. All individual travellers are therefore required to carry their own EHIC, regardless of age.

Useful information

Only state-provided emergency treatment is covered. You generally won't be covered for private treatment.