We love to take a tour to different destinations but have you ever thought of any medical emergency situations? Probably not, but you should think of such situations and make adequate arrangements. You have heard about different types of health insurance policies but they might not guarantee you a free medical treatment while taking a tour.
What to do in an emergency?
Suppose you are travelling to an unknown place and any of your family member suddenly faces a medical emergency. In such a situation we all get panic and began to lose our nerves. However, if you are residing in a European continent then you need not worry about such emergencies.
If you have got your EHIC then you can just show it to the state health care authorities and get the benefit. The health card can save you from hasty medical cost and treat yourself or the health of your loved ones without charging a penny.
How the card is issued?
In order to qualify for this health card, you have to be the citizen of EEA nation. This card is issued by the official site of the European health insurance card. It is totally free and one should be aware of websites that charge money. After logging into the official website, you will find a form. You need to fill up all the personal details and in case of an amended address, you have to inform the officials.
In case of an incomplete form, it is not acceptable. The European citizens have to make sure that the PIN code which is provided by the NHS is filled or not. In case you submit the form without filling up the pin number; your form is liable to get canceled.
What is covered?
There is an urgent need to know about the specifications of this card. The EHIC covers health benefits by giving you an opportunity to safeguard your health problems while you are touring to a European nation. However, this health card does not cover health costs of minor problems like a toothache or any such minor health issues which can be cured after retaining back homeland.
The rules are different for each of the European countries. There are some countries that do not charge a penny for the treatment while some other countries charge a patient contribution. Nevertheless one should not take this health card as an alternative to travel card.
Is it valid for lifetime?
The answer is obviously not. This EHIC is valid only for five years. After completion of the validity period, you have to renew it. A cardholder has to keep a check on the expiry date as an invalid card cannot give any benefit. One needs to renew their card six months before the end of the validity terms.
Hence, it is clear that a health insurance card is meant to save you from emergencies. A person can only apply for the card if he/she is an EU national. Before you plan a trip you have to pack your bags with this health card.
