If you are visiting Spain on holidays, please remember to bring your EHIC card. You will be asked for this card any time you seek treatment and it will cover the cost of any emergency health care you receive at State run hospitals during your stay. It will not cover any private consultation.

The EHIC card is issued free of charge and you can request it online or calling, once outside the UK, the number 0044 191 203 5555.

State run hospitals are generally good - the doctors are competent and the nursing of a good standard. The custom however is that non-medical nursing tasks are carried out by a family member who stays with the patient in hospital.

The same as the previous E111 form, the new EHIC card will not entitle you to medical repatriation costs. Private insurance is recommended to cover these costs.