Nige,
Make sure you get an EHIC card for all the members of your family! Essential for these countries.
Which countries does the EHIC cover?
Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain and Sweden. It doesn?t cover the Channel Islands.
How can I get one?
The EHIC is free to get and can be kept with your passport. To get one, you need a national insurance number or NHS number. You can apply for one online via www.ehic.org.uk ? be careful to apply using that address as there are scam sites out there. Alternatively, apply over the phone by calling 0845 606 2030 (or if you hate 0845 numbers, like I do, call the cheaper alternative 0191 212 7500) or pick up a form from the Post Office. Parents, remember each child must have their own card. The process takes less than five minutes and the card will be sent to you by post.
How do I use it to get treatment?
Simply hand it over to the doctor, hospital or pharmacist when you need treatment. If they claim not to accept it, stand your ground and use consular services if necessary. You may need to pay upfront and then claim it back. Try to get a refund before you go home, but if this is not practical, call the NHS Overseas Healthcare team on 0191 218 1999 to get a form for
