FAQs - Unplanned healthcare: payments and reimbursements
Can I be required to pay for unplanned medical treatment abroad, even after providing my European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)?
MAYBE - If public patients are charged for medical care in the country where you're staying,
you'll have to pay the same amount as a local resident. However, if medical care is
free of charge for locals, you shouldn't have to pay either.
While I was visiting another EU country, I fell ill and was hospitalised for emergency treatment. I showed my European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). A month later a bill arrived at my home. People living in the country I visited don't have to pay for treatment - so do I really have to?
NO. The hospital should treat you on the same terms and at the same cost as nationals
of the country you're visiting. The bill should be settled by the country where you're
insured. If you received a bill after your return which you paid, apply to your national
health insurer for reimbursement.
Last checked: 06/11/2023