Getting medical treatment while on holiday
For more information, visit the Parkinson’s UK website (last updated May 2026).
UK Global Health Insurance Card (UK GHIC)
The UK GHIC lets you get medically necessary state healthcare in the European Economic Area (EEA) and some other countries. You will be able to use the same state healthcare system as local residents. This means care may be free, or you’ll pay the same charges as local people.
The UK GHIC or EHIC does not replace travel insurance. It does not cover costs such as being flown back to the UK or private medical treatment.
The UK GHIC has replaced the UK European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). If you still have a UK EHIC, it’s valid until its expiry date. Once expired, you’ll need a UK GHIC. A UK GHIC is free and lasts for up to 5 years. Apply below:
Medical treatment outside Europe
In most countries outside Europe, there is no agreement with the UK. This means you usually have to pay for all medical treatment yourself.
If you need medical treatment abroad, you may need to show:
- your British passport
- proof of UK residence, for example a driving licence.
Because coverage outside Europe is limited, travel insurance is essential. It should cover emergency treatment, hospital stays, and being flown back to the UK if needed.