EHIC: a complete guide - Telegraph Where it can be used In 27 European Economic Area (EEA) countries. For a full list of which ones, and details of what is covered in each, see here. What the EHIC covers The basic premise is that medical treatment will be free or subsidised on a similar basis to residents of the country you are visiting. Each country's health system is different however and might not include all the things you would expect to get free of charge from the NHS. It is important to ensure you are treated by a state health-care provider. Be particularly vigilant if a call for medical help is made by a hotel or a tour company representative who may be paid commission by private clinics to direct customers to their services. Hospital emergency treatment is usually free as long as you show your EHIC. What it doesn't cover Fees to see a GP. The NHS says that in France visitors seeking treatment must pay €21 (£17) to see a GP (€25/£21 for a specialist). A contribution to hospital care. This may be reimbursed by the NHS on your return to Britain. Treatment in private clinics. Ambulance journeys. Prescriptions. A flight home in a medical emergency Additional accommodation if illness means you cannot return as planned. Claiming on your return If you try to use an EHIC and it is refused, you should be able to make a claim for the treatment on your travel insurance. For general inquiries or to make a claim in Britain, call the Overseas Healthcare Team on 0191 218 1999. How to renew an EHIC EHICs need to be renewed every six years. Apply or renew at the official website. Be warned: there are a number of unofficial websites offering to renew cards for a fee but there is no need to pay for this service. Do I need travel insurance as well? If you don't have an EHIC, then some insurers won't pay for any medical treatment, as the small print of these policies states all travellers must have a valid card. So it would be foolish in any circumstances to rely solely on an EHIC. If you have travel insurance you should be able to reclaim many of the above costs, as well as extras such as lost baggage, stolen cameras or cancelled holidays if you fall ill in advance. Most insurers also offer 24-hour helplines and assistance services, putting you in touch with English-speaking doctors and helping to rearrange flights and accommodation for yourself and your family in a real emergency.