Claim health treatment in Europe: E111 replaced by EHIC

21.04.2006 Since January 1, 2006 the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) form has replaced the E111. The E111 form entitled UK travellers to receive free or reduced-cost medical treatment in many European countries. The replacement EHIC form is free and largely offers the same kind of protection as the E111.You can pick up an application form from post offices, travel agents or by calling the EHIC Applications Line on 0845 606 2030. It is valid in all European Community countries as well as Liechtenstein and Norway.

How the EHIC works
The EHIC is normally valid for between three and five years. It covers any medical treatment that becomes necessary during your travel, because of either illness or an accident.
The card gives access to state-provided medical treatment only, and you'll be treated on the same basis as an 'insured' person living in the country you're visiting.
But remember, this might not cover all the things you'd expect to get free of charge from the NHS in the UK. You may have to make a contribution to the cost of your care. This is why private health insurance is strongly recommended for all travelers.
More information on the terms, conditions and eligibility criteria pertaining to the EHIC card may be found of the Department of Health’s website http://www.dh.gov.uk/ or by calling their Customer Service Centre on 020 7210 4850.