Understanding EHIC and GHIC: Key Differences and Eligibility
The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) and the UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) play a pivotal role in providing access to necessary healthcare for UK residents travelling within Europe. Both cards enable holders to receive medical treatment in state-run hospitals or clinics on the same terms as local citizens, ensuring peace of mind in case of unexpected illness or injury abroad. However, it is important to understand the differences between these two cards, especially for travellers over the age of 70.
The EHIC is a legacy document that continues to be valid until its expiry date for those who obtained it before Brexit. It offers coverage across EU countries, plus Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein. In contrast, the GHIC was introduced post-Brexit and covers treatment in EU countries only, excluding the additional EEA nations. This distinction is particularly relevant when planning travel outside the European Union, as certain destinations may not accept the GHIC.
Eligibility for both cards requires applicants to be ordinarily resident in the UK, but there are no upper age limits—making them accessible to over 70s who often have unique health considerations while travelling. However, it is crucial to note that neither card is a substitute for comprehensive travel insurance. The EHIC and GHIC do not cover private medical care, repatriation costs, or pre-planned treatments. For older travellers with potentially greater healthcare needs, understanding these limitations is essential before setting out on any trip abroad.
Health Coverage Provided by EHIC and GHIC for Over 70s
The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) and its successor, the UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), play a pivotal role in ensuring that UK residents over 70 have access to essential healthcare while travelling within the European Union and select countries. Understanding the scope of coverage is crucial for older travellers, as age can often bring specific medical needs and higher risks. Below is a breakdown of what these cards cover for those over 70:
Types of Medical Services Covered
Both EHIC and GHIC provide access to state-provided healthcare on the same terms as local residents in participating countries. This means that medically necessary treatments arising during your stay are covered, regardless of pre-existing conditions or age.
| Service Type | Examples | Coverage Details |
|---|---|---|
| Emergency Medical Treatment | Accidents, sudden illnesses | Covers urgent treatment needed during your trip |
| Routine Medical Care | GP visits, prescriptions | Only if medically necessary and cannot wait until return to UK |
| Hospital Treatment | Surgery, inpatient care | Treated as local residents; may involve co-payment depending on country rules |
| Maternity Care | Antenatal checks, birth-related emergencies | Covers unexpected complications; planned births not covered |
| Treatment for Pre-existing Conditions | Diabetes management, heart disease check-ups | Covers necessary treatment if condition worsens during trip |
| Oxygen & Dialysis | Pre-arranged sessions abroad | Must be booked in advance with local provider; EHIC/GHIC covers state facilities only |
Costs Involved: What’s Free and What’s Not?
It is important to note that EHIC and GHIC do not guarantee free treatment in every instance. The cards ensure you pay the same rate as a resident of the country you’re visiting—this may include co-payments or part charges in some healthcare systems.
| Country Example | Status of Charges for Over 70s (with EHIC/GHIC) |
|---|---|
| France | Partial reimbursement; patient pays up front then claims back majority of cost from French system |
| Spain | Most emergency care is free at the point of use; private care not covered |
| Germany | User pays co-payment for certain services (e.g., hospital stays); balance covered by card scheme |
| Ireland | Treatment usually free or minimal charge if using public health system facilities |
Main Limitations for Over 70s Travelling Abroad with EHIC/GHIC Only:
- No cover for private healthcare or repatriation costs to the UK.
- No coverage for mountain rescue, lost property, or travel disruption.
- No protection against non-urgent elective procedures or planned specialist treatments.
- You must follow the host country’s processes (e.g., require a GP referral before hospital admission).
- Your card must be valid throughout your stay.
Summary Point:
The EHIC and GHIC provide significant reassurance for over 70s travelling within Europe by covering many urgent health needs at local rates. However, gaps remain—especially around private healthcare, repatriation, and some out-of-pocket expenses—highlighting why supplementary travel insurance tailored to older travellers is highly advisable.
3. Limitations of EHIC and GHIC for Older Travellers
While the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) and its UK replacement, the Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), are valuable resources for British travellers, especially those over 70, it is crucial to understand their limitations. These cards ensure access to state-provided medical care in participating countries, but there are significant gaps in coverage that older travellers should consider.
Exclusions for Private Medical Care
One of the primary restrictions of both EHIC and GHIC is that they only cover treatment provided by the public healthcare system in the destination country. Any medical services sought from private clinics or hospitals are not included. This is particularly relevant for older travellers who may prefer or require specialised care that is often only available privately abroad. Consequently, individuals over 70 relying solely on EHIC or GHIC may face substantial out-of-pocket expenses if private treatment becomes necessary.
No Cover for Repatriation
Neither the EHIC nor GHIC covers the cost of repatriation—returning an ill or injured traveller to the UK for further treatment or recovery. For older adults, who may be at increased risk of health complications while overseas, this represents a critical gap. Emergency air ambulance services, medical escorts, and associated logistical costs can be prohibitively expensive without supplementary insurance in place.
Treatments Outside Participating Countries
EHIC and GHIC are only valid in certain countries—primarily EU member states and, for EHIC holders, a few additional nations under specific agreements. If a traveller over 70 falls ill or is injured in a non-participating country, these cards offer no protection at all. This exposes older travellers to potentially high medical costs outside Europe or in destinations not covered by reciprocal healthcare arrangements.
Additional Considerations for Over 70s
For those aged over 70, pre-existing medical conditions are more common and may not always be fully covered even within state systems abroad. Furthermore, some treatments or medications available under the NHS may not be offered or reimbursed at the same level overseas. This inconsistency increases the importance of understanding what is—and is not—covered before travelling.
In summary, while EHIC and GHIC provide a safety net for emergency public healthcare in participating countries, they leave notable gaps for older travellers. Recognising these exclusions forms the basis for why supplementary travel insurance remains essential for anyone over 70 looking to travel with confidence and peace of mind.
4. The Importance of Supplementary Travel Insurance
For travellers over the age of 70, understanding the limitations of the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) and its replacement, the UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), is crucial. While these cards provide access to medically necessary state healthcare in the EU and select countries, they do not offer full protection against all potential health or travel-related risks. Relying solely on EHIC or GHIC can expose older travellers to significant financial liabilities and gaps in care that comprehensive travel insurance is designed to address.
Limitations of EHIC and GHIC Coverage
The EHIC and GHIC are valuable tools for accessing emergency medical treatment during a temporary stay abroad, but their scope is limited. Notably, these cards do not cover private healthcare costs, repatriation to the UK, or non-medical emergencies such as lost luggage or trip cancellations—issues which may be more prevalent or consequential for those over 70. In some countries, even public hospitals may require upfront payments for certain treatments, which are not always fully reimbursable.
Key Differences: EHIC/GHIC vs. Comprehensive Travel Insurance
| Coverage Aspect | EHIC / GHIC | Travel Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Emergency State Healthcare | Yes (EU/EEA & Switzerland) | Yes (often worldwide) |
| Private Medical Treatment | No | Yes |
| Repatriation to UK | No | Yes |
| Pre-existing Medical Conditions | No tailored cover | Can be covered if declared |
| Trip Cancellation/Interruption | No | Yes |
| Baggage Loss/Theft | No | Yes |
Risks of Relying Solely on EHIC or GHIC
The consequences of insufficient cover can be particularly severe for older travellers who are statistically more likely to need medical assistance abroad. Without comprehensive travel insurance, individuals may face:
- Substantial out-of-pocket expenses for private treatment or repatriation.
- Difficulties with access to medication tailored to existing health conditions.
- Lack of financial protection in case of trip disruptions caused by illness or unforeseen events.
- No compensation for loss or theft of personal belongings.
Given these risks, UK government guidance strongly recommends that everyone—especially those over 70—secures comprehensive travel insurance before departure. Such policies can be tailored to individual medical histories and travel plans, offering peace of mind that goes far beyond the basic safety net provided by EHIC or GHIC alone.
5. Selecting the Right Travel Insurance Policy for Over 70s
Choosing an appropriate travel insurance policy is crucial for travellers over 70, especially given that the EHIC and GHIC cards have their limitations in covering all medical expenses and do not address broader travel risks. When seeking supplementary travel insurance, older travellers should look for policies specifically tailored to their needs.
Specialised Cover for Pre-Existing Conditions
Many standard travel insurance products exclude cover for pre-existing medical conditions, which are more prevalent among those aged 70 and above. It is essential to disclose all health issues honestly during the application process. Look for insurers who offer specialist policies with comprehensive cover for a wide range of chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, or arthritis. Failure to declare pre-existing conditions can invalidate your policy, leaving you unprotected abroad.
Comprehensive Medical Expenses Cover
The cost of healthcare outside the UK can be considerable, particularly in destinations where reciprocal healthcare agreements are limited or non-existent. While EHIC and GHIC provide access to state-provided medical care in certain countries, they do not guarantee full coverage or repatriation costs. Therefore, select a policy with a high limit on medical expenses—ideally £2 million or more—and ensure it includes emergency medical evacuation and repatriation back to the UK if necessary.
Cancellation and Curtailment Protection
Older travellers may face a higher likelihood of needing to cancel or cut short a trip due to unforeseen health issues or family emergencies. A robust travel insurance policy should offer cancellation and curtailment cover that reflects the full value of your holiday investment. This protection ensures you are not out of pocket for prepaid flights, accommodation, or tours if your plans must change unexpectedly.
Additional Considerations
When comparing policies, also consider cover for lost medication, extended stays due to hospitalisation, and personal liability. Carefully review policy wording for exclusions related to age limits, specific destinations, or activities like cruises. Using comparison websites and consulting brokers specialising in cover for seniors can help identify suitable options.
Summary
In summary, while EHIC and GHIC cards remain valuable resources, travellers over 70 should prioritise finding travel insurance products designed with their unique circumstances in mind. By securing specialised cover for pre-existing conditions, ensuring adequate limits on medical expenses, and opting for strong cancellation protection, older adults can travel with greater confidence and peace of mind.
6. Practical Steps Before Travelling: Documentation and Preparation
Essential Checklist for Over 70s Travelling Abroad
For UK residents over the age of 70, careful preparation before travelling within Europe is crucial to ensure access to healthcare and financial protection in case of medical emergencies. Below is a logical checklist of the key administrative and legal actions you should take prior to your trip, focusing on the use of EHIC/GHIC cards and supplementary travel insurance.
1. Check Validity and Eligibility
Start by confirming whether your current European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) is still valid. Remember that EHICs issued before Brexit may still be accepted until expiry, after which you must apply for a GHIC. Not all UK residents are eligible for an EHIC; most will now require a GHIC.
2. Apply for or Renew Your EHIC/GHIC
If your card is about to expire or has already expired, apply for a new GHIC via the official NHS website. Allow at least two weeks for processing and delivery, though delays can occur, so apply well in advance of your departure date.
3. Carry Your EHIC/GHIC with You
Your EHIC or GHIC must be physically present with you when travelling. Digital copies may not always be accepted by healthcare providers abroad. Keep it in an accessible location alongside your passport and other essential documents.
4. Secure Comprehensive Travel Insurance
The EHIC/GHIC only covers medically necessary state-provided healthcare in participating countries, not private treatment or costs such as repatriation, lost belongings, or trip cancellations. For those over 70, it’s particularly important to purchase travel insurance that covers pre-existing conditions and age-related risks. Shop around for policies specifically tailored for senior travellers and scrutinise exclusions carefully.
5. Inform Insurers About Pre-Existing Conditions
When purchasing travel insurance, fully disclose any existing medical conditions to avoid invalidating your policy. Failure to do so could result in claims being denied, leaving you exposed to substantial costs.
6. Organise Supporting Documentation
Compile all documentation related to your health: prescriptions, a summary of medical history from your GP, vaccination certificates if required by your destination, and emergency contact details. This expedites treatment if needed and helps insurers process claims efficiently.
Final Preparation
Before departure, double-check that all documentation is up-to-date and readily accessible. Share copies with a trusted friend or family member in the UK as a backup. By methodically following this checklist, over 70s can travel with greater peace of mind knowing they have fulfilled both their legal obligations and practical needs regarding healthcare access and financial protection abroad.
