TRAVELLING to Europe after Brexit could result in a number of changes for Brits, particularly when it comes to the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).
So far most EU countries will not honour the EHIC if Britain leaves the bloc without a deal. Here is what you need to know.
What are European Health Insurance Cards?
The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) gives Brits free or discounted medical treatment at state-run hospitals and GPs in any EU country, as well as in Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland.
Card holders are entitled to the same treatment (at the same cost) that local citizens are entitled to – so if they pay, you'll have to pay – and if they get healthcare for free, so will you.
According to MoneySavingExpert.com, more than half of people in the UK don't have an EHIC and last year almost three million expired.
Can I use my EHIC after Brexit?
The government has warned that the card may not be valid in the event of a No Deal.
Depending on the country, the healthcare offered to Brits may differ – the NHS has offered detailed advice for each EU country.
The government has asked all 31 countries to keep the EHIC in place until December 31, 2020, no matter what the outcome with Brexit.
But so far on three have agreed to cover tourists from the UK if there's no deal.
If British people need medical help in any of them, after a no-deal Brexit, they will either have to pay or make sure they have travel insurance beforehand.
In its latest update, the government has advised Brits to purchase insurance that protects them in the event of a No Deal Brexit.
It said: "If the UK leaves the EU without a deal on 31 October 2019, your EHIC might not be valid anymore.
"Buy travel insurance that comes with healthcare cover before you travel."
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