Tackling misinformation about the UK Global Health Insurance Card
The NHS Business Services Authority is aware of widespread misinformation about the UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) and UK European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) across social media.
We believe this started earlier this week as a result of a WhatsApp post.
The key errors are people stating that there is or was a deadline to apply, and that the cards provide full travel insurance; both of which are incorrect.
There’s a lot of online confusion, so we want to clarify that:
- There is no deadline to make an application for a UK GHIC or a UK EHIC.
- If you have an existing EHIC you can continue to use it until it expires.
- The UK GHIC is free to obtain from the official website.
- Cards are not a replacement for travel insurance.
We advise people to be aware of misinformation and to only share information that comes from verified sources.
Follow the official NHS Overseas Healthcare Services social media channels for the latest correct information.
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/NHSOverseasHealthcareServices
Twitter – https://twitter.com/NHSBSA_OHS
Only get your UK GHIC from the official NHS website – www.nhs.uk/ghic.
Contact Information
Katy Edgar
Senior Media and Campaigns Officer
NHS Business Services Authority