The EHIC, or European Health Insurance Card, is the replacement for the E111. As of 1 January 2006, E111s are not valid.
Also called the EU Medical Card, over 8 million people in the UK have already received the new EHIC card - it is like a small plastic ID card and gives details such as your name, date of birth and National Insurance number.
The EHIC, which lasts for three to five years, can be used to cover any necessary medical treatment due to either an accident or illness within the European Economic Area (EEA). The card entitles the holder to state-provided medical treatment within the country they are visiting and the service provided will be the same as received by a person covered by the country's 'insured' medical scheme.
The EHIC can also be used to receive treatment for pre-existing illnesses, chronic diseases and routine maternity care.
The EHIC may not cover persons for all medical costs incurred so you are strongly advised to also arrange travel insurance to ensure that you are covered for all possible eventualities.
Many mistakes have been made on these cards and if you are filling in a written application then make sure that your handwriting is very clear.
If your card details are wrong, return it immediately and allow 7 days for the new one to arrive. If you apply at the Post Office you can expect to wait up to 3 weeks. By telephone 10 days.
For information about applyng for a EHIC Click here