THOUSANDS of Hampshire people are among those who do not have a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) enabling them to receive reduced cost or free healthcare when abroad.

Now the Department of Health is urging all British tourists to check the expiry date of their card as three million are due to expire by next March.

The EHIC, which replaced the E111 form three years ago, entitles travellers to reduced cost or free, state-provided healthcare in most European countries if they fall ill or have an accident while abroad, but only if it is in date.

Recent research by the Department of Health revealed that more than half – 52 per cent – of Brits were not even aware that the card had to be renewed.

Paul Siddell, overseas healthcare manager at the Department of Health said: “Many Brits are putting themselves at risk by not checking their EHIC expiry date.

“If you’re travelling in Europe it’s vital that you carry an EHIC, as well as comprehensive travel insurance.

If you find your EHIC is out-ofdate, it is very easy to renew it online or over the phone and it will be delivered within ten days. Card holders can renew up to six months in advance of expiry.”

Some travel insurance polices are not valid without an EHIC card.

To renew or get an EHIC, log on to nhs.uk/healthcareabroad or call 0845 606 2030.