It’s always a good idea to have travel insurance when planning a trip abroad. In the UK, the Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) is an essential document that provides access to healthcare services when travelling to countries within the European Union (EU), Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the UK GHIC, including its features, benefits, and how to obtain it.
Understanding the UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC)
The GHIC is a health insurance card issued by the UK government to its citizens traveling abroad. It grants access to state-provided healthcare services in the EU countries mentioned above at the same cost as the locals. It’s similar to the European Health Insurance Card, which was introduced in 2005, and most people from EU countries have one already.
Features and Benefits
The GHIC provides comprehensive medical cover, including emergency and necessary healthcare services during short-term visits abroad. It covers pre-existing medical conditions and routine treatments such as maternity care, dialysis, and oxygen therapy. It also provides access to state-provided healthcare services at a reduced cost or for free.
Unlike travel insurance, the GHIC is free of charge and does not require a medical examination. However, it does not cover private medical care, transportation back to the UK, or lost or stolen property. That means it’s a good idea to have both travel insurance and a GHIC for peace of mind when traveling abroad.
How to Apply for the UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC)
Applying for the GHIC is straightforward and can be done online by visiting the NHS website. Applicants will need to provide personal details such as their name, address, date of birth, and National Insurance number. The GHIC has no expiry date, but it’s recommended that individuals check their card’s validity before traveling.
Conclusion
The UK Global Health Insurance Card provides essential medical cover when traveling to EU countries, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland. It’s free of charge and grants access to medical services at the same price as locals. However, it’s important to note that it does not cover private healthcare, lost or stolen property, or transportation back to the UK. Obtaining a GHIC is simple and can be done online through the NHS website. Remember to check the validity of your GHIC before traveling to ensure uninterrupted medical coverage.
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