(1888PressRelease)
September 21, 2007 - Direct Travel Insurance, the travel insurance specialist, is concerned that the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is causing confusion for British travellers, because its name suggests that health insurance will automatically be provided when travelling anywhere in Europe.
In fact, the EHIC differs from the previous E111 Form in name and shape only and the benefits it provides for the UK public when going abroad are completely unchanged. The EHIC will only offer discounted or free medical treatment at public health centres in EU countries and in Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland, but it will still not give people other essential medical cover that only a travel insurance policy can provide:
Treatment at private medical centres in an emergency. This is a problem in many EU countries, particularly in Spain, where finding a surgery or clinic operated under the state health service may be very difficult and a long way away.
Repatriation back to the UK in the event of a serious illness or accident, the cost of which can run into tens of thousands of pounds if an air ambulance is required.
Mountain rescue from ski slopes, which may also involve helicopter evacuation.
Expenses for other people travelling with you if you are kept in the hospital abroad.
Ambulance transfers, X-rays, laboratory tests and prescribed medication, cover for which can vary with the EHIC depending on which country you are visiting.
Pre-travel cancellation cover on medical grounds, one of the major causes of claims against travel insurance policies.
Mark Shaw, Partner and Co-Founder of Direct Travel Insurance, says: "Last year, according to the Foreign Office, 29 per cent of people travelled without insurance, a rise of 7 per cent on the previous year. We are concerned that this figure may rise even further due to the possible misconception of the benefits and cover provided by the EHIC, with potentially devastating financial consequences for travellers to Europe."
For further details, please contact Ms Kim Sullivan, PR Manager at Direct Travel Insurance, on 01243 545917 or 07713 646796 or kim.sullivan ( @ ) direct-travel dot co.uk
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