Getting medical treatment while on holiday
For more information, visit the Parkinson’s UK website (last updated November 2022).
UK European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) and UK Global Health Insurance Card (UK GHIC)
The UK European Health Insurance Card (UK EHIC) and UK Global Health Insurance Card (UK GHIC) allow you to receive free or subsidised medical treatment in an EU country.
The UK GHIC is replacing the UK EHIC. If you still have a UK EHIC, it is valid until the expiration date on the card. Find out more about the UK EHIC and UK GHIC, including how to apply, at the link below.
Not everything that would be free on the NHS is covered by these cards. But you should be able to get the same treatment as a resident of the country you’re visiting receives. If you do have to pay anything towards your care, it may be possible to get a refund when you return to the UK.
It’s important to have both a valid UK EHIC/ UK GHIC and a travel insurance policy when you travel. The cards don’t act as an alternative to travel insurance – they don’t cover the cost of being flown back to the UK or private medical healthcare, for example.
Medical treatment outside Europe
The UK has agreements with some countries that may mean you’re able to receive free or reduced rate healthcare outside Europe in an emergency. Read more at the link below.
Heathcare agreements with non-EU countries
If you’re charged for treatment, you won’t be able to apply for a refund from the UK Government when you return home.
To get treatment, you’ll usually need to show your British passport and proof of residence, such as a driving licence.