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If
you are a UK resident you are entitled
to free, or reduced cost, state provided
healthcare when visiting a European
Union (EU) country, Iceland, Liechtenstein,
Norway or Switzerland. However to
be covered you will need to take a
new completed E111 form with you,
which you can get, free of charge,
from your nearest Post Office.
As
a result of recent changes to European
law a new E111 form has been introduced
to replace the old one. If you are
planning to travel to one of these
countries during 2005 you should apply
for the new E111, as the old ones
are only valid until 31st December
2004.
The
main difference between the old and
new form is that the new form is now
issued on an individual, as opposed
to family, basis. However, you will
only need to complete one application
form in order to receive E111s for
you, your spouse/partner and children.
The new E111 form will be valid until
31st December 2005.
The
second major change is that during
the course of 2005 the UK will be
adopting the European Health Insurance
Card (EHIC). This will be automatically
issued to those who apply for the
new E111 form and tick the box to
receive the new card.
The
new E111 form and the booklet "Health
Advice for Travellers" can be
obtained from the Post Office. Forms
are also available to download from
the Department of Health's website:
www.dh.gov.uk/travellers
Please
note the section: "Getting treatment
in countries inside the EEA"
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