Do I need an E111

[littleoldme]

We are going to Spain on Sat. We have full travel insurance but do we need an E111 anyway ? I'm guessing not but wanted to double check.

It's a European Health Insurance Card now. It's wise to have one but doubt whether you will get one before Sat. You can apply online or over the phone.

I don't think it's the law, but if you do need to seek medical treatment then you might have to pay up front, even if you can claim it back later.

I agree with Piggy that you probably won't get one in time now anyway, but if you are planning to go to Europe again in future you should get one (everyone in the family needs their own (sigh)) but they don't expire so it's a one-off hassle.

Thanks. So I'm assuming the travel card allows you free treatment whereas we'll have to claim back on insurance.

i'll see if we can do it online. thanks everyone.

check with your insurer - some expect you to have one so any claims cost them less

they do expire or at least ours do

AS long as you ahve the application numbers adn the relevant helpline number you will be covered even without the actual cards. There are limitations on what is free , you may still have to pay for medicines etc and claim back.

the european card is so that you can be treated in that country as a national (e.g. not private) however if you need emergency medical treatment abroad your insurance company will pay and you will be treated as private payers IYSWIM.
Thats what happened with us anyway, took ds1 to A&E, waiting room full of local spanish people and ds1 was taken straight through, private room ensuite etc, I presume thats not the norm

Thanks for that. I'll apply online this pm and get the app and helpline no. my main concern is that I'm 18weeks pg and rhesus negative. i want to make sure I can get an anti d with no probs if I need it.

Thanks for the advice everone. Mn is once again a mine of useful information.