Ensure you are prepared for any medical emergencies during your travels in Europe. The European Health Insurance Card gives you access to essential medical care at no extra cost.
To ensure you make the most of the benefits of the European Health Insurance Card, below are some important tips for applying for and using your card effectively.
What is the European Health Insurance Card?
The European Health Insurance Card is a document that allows citizens of the European Union, the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland to access necessary healthcare during a temporary stay in another European country. The card guarantees that the beneficiary has access to the same healthcare as local residents, under similar conditions and at no additional cost, except for standard co-payments.
How to get the European Health Insurance Card
How to apply: You can apply for the European Health Insurance Card through your national health service or equivalent institution. In Portugal, this is done through the Social Security or Health Services.
Required documents: Typically, you will need to provide your tax identification number and your identification document number. Check the specific requirements for your country.
Issuance time: The card is usually issued within a few weeks, but it is recommended to apply for it well in advance of your trip.
Benefits of the European Health Insurance Card
Access to medical care: With CES, you have access to the necessary medical care during your stay, covering consultations, treatments and hospitalizations, as established by the rules of the country visited.
No additional costs: The card ensures that you will not have additional costs for health care, beyond the co-payments or fees that local residents pay.
Ease and convenience: When traveling with CES, you avoid complications and unexpected expenses with health care, providing a more peaceful trip.
Limitations and Considerations
It does not replace travel insurance: CES does not cover all types of healthcare, such as return transport or specific treatments, so it is advisable to have additional travel insurance.
Valid only for necessary care: The card only covers necessary and urgent healthcare. It does not cover planned treatments or treatments outside the public network.
Using the European Health Insurance Card
How to use: When you need medical care, present your European Health Insurance Card at the time of your appointment or hospitalization. It is also recommended that you bring a copy of the card and your personal documents.
International coverage: The CES is accepted in all countries of the European Union, the European Economic Area and Switzerland. Check the specific conditions of the country you are visiting.
Additional tips
Check validity: Make sure your card is valid and your details are up to date before traveling.
Know the local healthcare system: Find out about the healthcare system in your destination country and how to use the CES to ensure you are aware of local procedures.
Be prepared and informed to travel with peace of mind
The European Health Insurance Card is a valuable tool to ensure you have access to essential healthcare during your travels in Europe. From its issuance to its use, the EHIC offers an additional layer of security and peace of mind. However, please note that the European Health Insurance Card only covers necessary care and is not a substitute for travel insurance. Click the button below and check out the insurance we have to offer.
Plan your trip in advance, get your card and take out insurance to ensure you travel with confidence that you will be fully protected. If you have any questions, the Wildngo Travel team is at your disposal.
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