What is EHIC Cover in Estonia
Emerging from the shadow of the Soviet government, Estonia entered into itself as a popular holiday destination. Despite having a Russian connection, Estonia shares geographically and historically with Latvia and Lithuania. Europe has embraced the newly confident Estonian and has fallen in love with the stunning cities and stunning countryside.
If you are planning a trip to this unique part of the world, along with your passport remember to pack your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Since Estonia is in the EU, it has reciprocal agreements with the UK on health care, but just like every other EU country has different rules about what health care is, then Estonia. That’s why, even if you have a valid EHIC, it’s best to get insurance as well. While traveling with family, family travel policy is definitely recommended.
What is EHIC Cover in Estonia
What is EHIC Cover?
Only private insurance, whether it be individual or family travel policy, will cover private medical care in Estonia. If you are relying on your EHIC, you must access a contracted practitioner to the Estonian Health Insurance Fund (EHIF). EHIF has a phone number that you can call from the UK before you travel for more information (00372669663), and there is an excellent EHIF site that provides information in English.
Visit a Doctor or Dentist
If you visit a family doctor or general practitioner in Estonia, you will receive your consultation for free. However, if you or your family members need special care, you need a referral and will be asked to pay some maintenance fees. This is non-refundable if you only have an EHIC. If you have an adequate family travel policy that guarantees you comprehensively, you should be able to reclaim the money you have paid.
Home visits from GP will cost you a small fee, usually up to 5 euros, although this may vary. This fee can not be refunded with your EHIC. For regular dental care there is a fee, but if in an emergency, the treatment is free. And, good news for families traveling with children is a child under the age of 19 receiving free dental care, whatever it is. What is EHIC Cover in Estonia
What about hospital visits?
While on vacation with your family, ending up in a hospital is something you do not want to think about too much, but keep in mind just in case. Hospitalization in state-funded hospitals in Estonia is charged 2.50 euros per day up to 10 days, even if you have an EHIC, but there is no fee for treatment under 18, pregnancy or childbirth, or intensive care. The cost of maintaining a private hospital for family members can only be changed if you have a good family travel policy.
Although health care is very good in Estonia and you deserve it with a valid EHIC, it is always recommended that you issue a good insurance policy as well, especially if you are traveling with children.
Patrick Chong is the Managing Director of InsureMore, an award-winning team of specialists in one global journey, annual travel insurance and family. In addition to offering attractive offers for travel insurance, Patrick also collects and shares the best free travel competitions to help his clients get the most out of their holiday. What is EHIC Cover in Estonia