Europe and the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)
The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is the replacement for the E111.
It is important that you apply and obtain an EHIC before travelling in Europe.
As of 1 January 2006, E111s are not valid. Persons who are normally resident in the United Kingdom (UK) are entitled to a UK issued EHIC. The EHIC can be used to cover any necessary medical treatment due to either an accident or illness within the European Economic Area (EEA).
The card entitles the holder to state-provided medical treatment within the country they are visiting and the service provided will be the same as received by a person covered by the country's 'insured' medical scheme. This may not cover all of the services you would expect within the UK and you may have to make a contribution towards the care you receive.
The EHIC may not cover persons for all medical costs incurred so you are strongly advised to also arrange travel insurance to ensure that you are covered for all possible eventualities.
Please visit the European Health Insurance Card website for further details.