• On 1st September 2005, the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) was introduced as the replacement to the E111 form.

• E111 and EHIC will both be valid for the period from 1st September to 31st December 2005. After this time only EHIC will be valid.

• Unlike the E111 form, each traveller (including children) must hold an individual EHIC

• EHIC entitles UK residents travelling in Europe to free or reduced-cost, state-provided medical care in these European countries:

• Travellers can apply for an EHIC online through www.dh.gov.uk/travellers

• EHIC is not a substitute for travel insurance. Travellers should always be advised to get both. There are some things the EHIC does not cover, such as repatriation.

• EHIC is free of charge.

For more information, visit www.new-ehic.org.uk or call the partner helpline on 0207 866 7791

For customer information visit www.dh.gov.uk/travellers