UK Global Health Insurance Card

GHIC validity map

UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) is a document issued to individuals covered by the National Health Service (NHS) in the United Kingdom, allowing them to access state-provided healthcare during temporary stays in the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland. The GHIC replaced the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for UK residents following the UK's withdrawal from the European Union (EU), commonly referred to as Brexit.

Background

Prior to Brexit, UK residents were entitled to a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), which facilitated access to medical treatment during temporary visits within the EU and EEA countries, as well as Switzerland, under the same conditions and at the same cost (free in some countries) as people insured in those countries. However, with the UK's departure from the EU, the EHIC scheme's applicability to UK residents ended, necessitating the introduction of the GHIC.

Eligibility

The GHIC is available to residents of the UK. This includes all individuals who are covered by the NHS, including citizens, legal residents, and certain individuals working in the UK. It does not automatically cover residents of the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man, as these jurisdictions have their own health service arrangements.

Coverage

The GHIC covers necessary healthcare that cannot wait until the individual returns to the UK. This includes emergency treatment and treatment for pre-existing medical conditions. The card ensures that individuals receive care at a reduced cost or, in many cases, for free, similar to the entitlements of a resident of the country being visited. It is important to note that the GHIC is not a replacement for travel insurance, as it does not cover all health-related costs (such as mountain rescue in ski resorts or being flown back to the UK).

Application

The GHIC can be applied for through the official NHS website. There is no charge for the card, and it is advisable to apply well in advance of planned travel. The card is valid for a set period, after which it must be renewed.

Differences from EHIC

While the GHIC serves a similar purpose to the EHIC, it is important to note that the GHIC does not provide coverage in Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, or Switzerland for individuals who are not insured by an EU country. Those traveling to these countries may need to arrange separate travel insurance with health coverage.

Impact of Brexit

The introduction of the GHIC is one of the many changes resulting from Brexit. It reflects the UK's new relationship with the EU and its member states, particularly in terms of healthcare arrangements for travelers. The GHIC is a key component of the UK government's efforts to ensure that UK residents continue to have access to healthcare when traveling in Europe.

See Also

• National Health Service (NHS)
• Brexit
• European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)
• European Economic Area (EEA)
• Travel insurance