The Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) is a travel insurance card that allows travelers to access healthcare services while travelling abroad. The card serves as a replacement for the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for UK citizens, and as a helpful insurance tool for non-UK residents. The GHIC aims to reduce healthcare costs and improve healthcare services globally by providing insurance coverage for travelers in need of medical attention. This article delves into the benefits of the GHIC and how it caters to the needs of both travelers and healthcare providers.
Introduction:
The Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) is a card that provides individuals with access to healthcare services in any EU country and in Switzerland. The GHIC card replaced the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), which allows travelers and temporary residents to receive free or discounted medical care from a public healthcare provider in the EU, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland.
How GHIC benefits individuals:
The GHIC card provides essential benefits to individuals who are traveling or temporarily living in any of the aforementioned countries. The card enables such individuals to access public healthcare services such as a doctor’s visit, emergency care, and treatment for chronic diseases. With the GHIC, individuals can rest assured that they are covered in case of any medical emergencies that arise when traveling abroad, thereby providing them with a sense of security as they move from one country to another.
How GHIC reduces healthcare costs:
The GHIC also plays an essential role in reducing healthcare costs for individuals, as it minimizes the amount of money that they may spend while getting medical care abroad. For instance, with the GHIC, individuals can get emergency medical treatment for free. The card also covers pre-existing medical conditions, which could be costly, especially if an individual has to pay for treatment individually.
How GHIC ensures better healthcare services:
The GHIC card improves the quality of healthcare services that individuals receive while abroad. It offers individuals access to the same level of healthcare service that nationals of the country they are visiting enjoy. This, in turn, ensures that individuals receive quality healthcare services that meet their needs and expectations while abroad.
Obtaining a GHIC:
To obtain a GHIC, individuals must apply for one before traveling or temporarily living in any of the countries covered by the GHIC. The application process is free and can be done online. Once an individual has submitted their application, their card will be mailed to them, typically within ten working days.
Conclusion:
The GHIC card is an essential tool for individuals traveling or temporarily living in countries covered by the GHIC. It offers individuals access to quality healthcare services that meet their needs and expectations while also saving them money on medical treatment. By applying for a GHIC, individuals can enjoy peace of mind as they travel or live in different countries knowing that they are covered in case of any medical emergencies that may arise.