Having an accident, or suffering an illness, when you’re on holiday can be an ordeal. So it’s reassuring to know that as an Irish person travelling in Europe you can arm yourself with a free health insurance card. This card allows you to access health services in the public system of any of the other 26 EU countries, plus Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway or Switzerland, if you become ill or injured while on holiday or temporary stay there on the same basis as citizens of that state.
Getting your card could not be easier. All you have to do is pick up an application form from the Mayo Local Health Office in Castlebar (094 22333 ) or download it from www.ehic.ie and return it to the Community Care Offices. If you already have either a medical card or a drugs payment scheme (DPS ) card then you can apply online at www.ehic.ie To find out more about how the members of the EU are working together on health and other issues visit www.eumatters.ie
