Will travelling with my GHIC only be sufficient as a substitute for travel insurance? Â
It is not a good idea, as whatever coverage the GHIC offers only will take care of emergency medical needs like a visit to the A&E or consulting a GP at a state healthcare medical hospital only. However, many countries in Europe have state-run medical facilities that are a couple of hours away and trying to reach them in an emergency will not be recommended. A GHIC will not offer rescue or repatriation back to the UK via air ambulance either. Instead of depending upon the GHIC, selecting travel insurance as well when travelling will ensure you are covered for a host of issues including cancellation, theft and other medical situations.
Can I get a refund for medical costs with my GHIC?
In most cases, you will not get a refund for medical expenses with the GHIC. When the EHIC was introduced, it was done to ensure that UK nationals received healthcare services like the locals of the EU nations. The GHIC follows the same principles and since it is the norm to contribute a certain amount towards medical expenses in some European countries, a GHIC holder will have to pay the same as the locals of that country. This may include charges for bedding and boarding and lodging as well as for overnight stays, and these will not be covered by the GHIC. That is where having travel insurance comes to the rescue as they will probably issue a refund for these costs.
What is the process to get a GHIC?
Only if your EHIC has expired will you need to apply for a GHIC. In case the card has expired you can apply for a replacement card that will be the new GHIC online. This could also be done via the postal system, directly at the NHS website or via a third-party service provider that will take care of the nitty-gritty for you.
Which nations accept GHIC?
Currently, the GHIC is valid to use in all countries of the EU and Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Australia and New Zealand. There are plans to include other nations in the list later once reciprocal arrangements are made. Most state hospitals and doctors in popular tourist spots of the Mediterranean are accustomed to having patients come in with their EHIC/GHIC cards for treatment, so it is no hassle to get a quick response. However, in less popular destinations the doctors and staff at state healthcare facilities may probably take longer to act until they confirm that these cards are valid for use in state healthcare facilities.
Can visitors from Europe gain access to the NHS?
Both EHIC and GHIC are reciprocal, which makes it possible for visitors from other EU nations to get medical access at the NHS when needed. The same guidelines are applicable for treatment and restrictions so that people do not travel specifically to the UK for specialist treatment of any kind. Those visitors from nations which are part of the European Union are eligible to use their EHIC cards as and when needed.
Do children and a spouse need separate cards?
Every family member will need to have their card when they travel to any country. That means the spouse and children must have individual cards to get medical access when on a trip to any EU nation. Children above 16 must apply for their card on their while for those that are younger the parents/guardian can apply on their behalf.
What is the validity period of the GHIC?
As with the earlier EHIC, the GHIC is also valid for a period of 5-years from the date it is issued. Since many cardholders had their EHICs renewed shortly before December 2020, many of their cards will be valid for use for another 3-plus years. So do not rush for a new GHIC if your card has adequate validity left on it as it can continue to be used for medical requirements to EU countries for any short trip.
