Just Curious

When you go abroad on holiday, what is the medical card that you take with you - is it a form of insurance ?
On the news - they said that parts of Spain were not accepting these cards. As I am unable to travel, I was just curious as the EU are going to intervene .....

Re: Just Curious

I can't remember the name of the card but it's one that allows you to medical treatment if you need it. I always had my own insurance as the Spaniards can be a bit funny about the use of their version of the NHS.

Re: Just Curious

It is the European Health Insurance Card which should entitle EU citizens to free healthcare in public hospitals.
but it seems it is being rejected in some countries.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-22714147

We have never had to use one but we always make sure we have our own full independant Travel Insurance cover whenever we go abroad on holiday.

Re: Just Curious

So this card is not a form of insurance then ....?
EDIT - thanks Mags - we crossed-over there ....

Re: Just Curious

All countries which belong to the EU are supposed to recognise the EHIC card and give free medical treatment to all who have that card.Some hospitals in Spain are "illegally" refusing to accept the card and are demanding payment either from the patient or that person's holiday insurers. The EU commissioners are threatening to fine Spain for this illegal act. My wife has just had to renew her card at a cost of £19.

Re: Just Curious

Even with the EHIC card you still need insurance, because the card only allows the treatment free.

Re: Just Curious

We take the EHIC card but also take private medical insurance with us as well as a back-up just in case. I used my EHIC card in Spain last year at a walk-in clinic to have an ear syringed - no problem and no charge.

Re: Just Curious

here you go pats

http://www.nhs-e111-ehic.org.uk/?gcl...Fc3HtAodECcATw

Re: Just Curious

My husband had a very unpleasant accident in Spain and we reached the 24 hour clinic in Teulada (unmanned - you gotta love them) and a doctor was called out. Although the treatment was somewhat basic (to put it politely), they dealt with his injury and never asked for his insurance and no payment was requested there either. It probably depends on where you are in Spain.

Re: Just Curious

Yes, I was pleasantly surprised at the treatment I received, just had to show my EHIC and sign and was treated straight away - no waiting around either. This was near Barcelona.