It is extremely important that you ensure that you have a comprehensive medical travel insurance policy, that includes any existing medical conditions, when you go on holiday in Europe.
 
Even if you have a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), this does not mean you are fully covered and should still take out medical travel insurance for travelling in Europe. This is based on official guidance from the FCO.

Why is that?

An EHIC does not mean you are insured. Meaning that there are restrictions on the treatment available with an EHIC:
 
Few EU countries pay the full cost of medical treatment, even under the European Union’s healthcare arrangements. You still need sufficient travel insurance to cover healthcare costs.
 
In some countries, like Greece, the health service only covers medical treatment, and will not extend to feeding and personal care. But if you have travel insurance, this part of your healthcare will be covered by your travel insurance.
 
If you need an air ambulance home or you can’t travel home on your booked ticket, you could still face a large bill. Just a simple broken ankle, for example, can often mean a medical escort home (usually required by the airline in case of complications in flight) and a first class seat for extra leg room.
 
You may not be covered if you need extra accommodation to stay with a sick relative.
 
Healthcare costs are rising in Europe so ensuring you have adequate medical travel insurance for European travel is more important than ever. Our Travel Insurance provides medical travel insurance for Europe, so you can travel with complete peace of mind.