Have just had a slight panic - all our EHICs have expired! I had no idea they were due to run out (haven't had any communication from EHIC). Fortunatley I have renewed them all online, it was very straightforward. But I doubt the new cards will arrive before we travel on Saturday morning. Anyone else had this problem? I have written down all the contact details for EHIC, just to be on the safe side. I'll take the old cards too, plus NI cards and NHS cards.
There was an attempt to close down the rip off web sites that charge you to apply for or renew EHIC cards , but they are still in business. Read back to earlier posts and get the correct web address so you won't be stung. These cards and renewals are FREE.
This subject came up again on the Martin Lewis programme last night. If you need to apply for a new EHIC or a renewal go to the NHS website. These are entirely free. Do not use any other site that wants to charge
REMEMBER A EHIC REPLACES E111 AND IS FREE. To use it you must carry it at all times and show it before treatment commences. If you are seek treatment or are being transported by ambulance tell them you need to go to a public not private hospital. Even though we had a E111 we suffered a £4000 bill (partially recovered by travel insurance)after my husband was transported, scanned and medicated for 4 days at a private hospital for two slipped discs in France.
Please beware if you renew this online. All the sites online look official but some charge for the 'service' of putting on your information and fast tracking - please don't believe them the official site is easy, simple quick and free. Beware some of the sites that drop in 1st after a EHIC search will charge and look convincing and very official with similar wording logo's etc. They are not doing anything wrong and you will get an official card via NHS but they charge for the service and passing the details on. PLEASE BE CAREFUL AND READ CAREFULLY.
Post last edited on 01/02/2014 14:37:17
------------- No trailer, no topbox, no towbar, no big car - just us and a little 1.2 Fox. xxx happy camping
Just renewing my EHIC (the real, free one!) and note that the web-page has been enhanced with information of what can be claimed etc. for each country in Europe.
Also gives some possibly useful information on medical supplies.
Worth having a look through ....