How do I get a European Health Insurance Card, what does it cover and is it free?... - The Irish Sun

THE European Health Insurance Card is a document that allows you to access public healthcare across Europe.

The card gives you access to health services in the European Union, as well as Iceland, Norway, Liechtenstein and Switzerland for free or at a reduced fee.

The European Health Insurance Card that allows you to access healthcare across EuropeCredit: Getty

You can use the card when travelling abroad as well as when you are staying temporarily in other states.

But how does it work, how do you get a European Health Insurance card, what does it cover and is it free?

Here’s everything you need to know.

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HOW DOES IT WORK?

The European Health Insurance Card allows you to access public healthcare in other European states.

It can be used when travelling or staying in another country temporarily.

Each family member needs their own card and it lasts for up to four years.

When abroad you are advised to always carry your European Health Insurance card with you.

It does not cover private healthcare and it used to be called the E111 form.

HOW DO YOU GET A EUROPEAN HEALTH INSURANCE CARD?

You can only apply for a European Health Insurance card if you live in Ireland or another European Union or European Econmic Area member state, or Switzerland.

To apply for the card, which must be renewed in every four years, there are three options: in person, by post and online.

You can apply in person at any local office – with the exception of Dublin North West, Dublin South, Kildare and West Wicklow.

You can apply by post you can print out an application form and post it to your local health office with any documents that are required.

Or you can apply online through the HSE website if you have a medical card or drug payments scheme card and live in Ireland.

The card can also be renewed through the HSE website and you must apply to renew your card.

WHERE CAN YOU USE THE EUROPEAN HEALTH INSURANCE CARD?

The European Health Insurance Card can be used across 31 countries in Europe.

The card can be used across the European Union or European Economic Area country and in Switzerland.

The EEA is made up of 27 member states of the European Union as well as Iceland, Norway and Liechtenstein.

It can not be used in Andorra and Monaco as they are not part of the EU and EEA and private health insurance is advised in these places.

WHAT DOES IT COVER?

The European Health Insurance card covers a number of things including free or reduced cost public healthcare.

It also covers a temporary stay in the country up to three months.

As well as covering pre-existing medical conditions and routine maternity care – as long as you’re not going there to give birth.

If you are a student studying abroad the card will cover you for up to one academic year.

It does not cover private healthcare, the cost of flights home to Ireland, ongoing or permanent healthcare and medical expenses if the reason you are travelling abroad is to receive treatment.

HOW MUCH DOES THE CARD COST?

The European Health Insurance Card and Temporary Replacement Certificates are fre.

It is also free to renew your European Health Insurance Card.

WHAT DO I DO IF I FORGET TO BRING MY CARD ABROAD?

If you forget to bring your card away with you, you may be able to get a refund.

This also applies if the healthcare providers charged you by mistake.

The apply for a refund go to your HSE Local Health Office with any receipts you have.

The HSE will send you an E126 form to the health authorities in the other state to find out how much is due and if the service you used was in public health.