The Health Department in a statement today explained the use of the European Health Insurance Card by travellers and stressed that it can be used only for immediate necessary care on an emergency basis whilst on a temporary visit in all 27 EU member States plus Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland.

"The EHIC helps save time, hassle and money if one feels ill or suffers an injury whilst abroad. The card ensures that citizens get the same access to public sector healthcare on the same financial basis as the nationals of the country visited. Planned treatment is not covered by the European Health Insurance card but requires prior authorisation."

The department explained that each country has its own rules.In some countries services are provided free of charge. In others, people pay part of the costs themselves, called co-payment, a charge which is non-refundable, or they may have to pay the full costs first and claim partial refund afterwards.

"The EHIC complements private insurance, but is not a substitute for it, therefore the latter is always highly recommended since the card does not cover certain things like ambulance trips, and the costs of bringing the person back to Malta in the event of serious illness, accidents or deaths," the department said.

The Entitlement Unit issued 61,204 cards during 2009 and 24,000 between January and the end of June this year.

Applicants may apply online with an E-ID on www.sahha.gov.mt or by downloading an application form from the same site. Application forms are also available from all Local Councils and the Entitlement Unit.

Applications should be made at least a month before travel. If any problems are encountered whilst abroad one should contact the Entitlement Unit during working hours or by email on entitlement.mhec@gov.mt. Details are found on the reverse side of the card.