The European Health Insurance Card or EHIC is a reduced-cost, sometimes even free, medical treatment that is necessary when in an area covered by the European Economic Area or Switzerland. The EHIC brings important changes to the healthcare coverage in Europe. The EHIC replaced the old health care system on January 2006. The EHIC is valid anywhere from three to five years and offers coverage any medical treatment necessary during your trip either due to illness or accident.
The card allows access to medical treatment provided by the state only and you will receive treatment on an equal basis as an insured person that is residing in that country. It is important to keep in mind that this may not cover everything that you expect to be free from other countries. Chronic diseases or pre-existing conditions are also covered by the treatment.