"Don't go without your card," warns local Euro MP

3.00.00pm BST (GMT +0100) Tue 11th Jul 2006

Most holidaymakers from the Yorkshire and Humber region do not know they need to apply for a new card that entitles them to free medical treatment across Europe this summer.

The warning comes from local Liberal Democrat MEP, Diana Wallis, as research shows that two-thirds of Britons are not aware that the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), needed to get medical treatment in the EU, has replaced the old E111 form.

The E111 forms were replaced on January 1st by a credit card style pass that gives EU citizens access to all forms of health care when travelling in Europe.

The new card broadens the type of medical treatment that can be given and means that cardholders can go straight to any local doctor if they fall ill without first registering with local authorities.

All UK citizens can apply for the new health card by picking up an EHIC form at their local Post Office, but Diana Wallis warns that as applications can take up to 21 days to process, she wants holidaymakers to leave plenty of time.

Diana Wallis MEP welcomed the introduction of the card. She said:

"The card will give greater confidence and security to travellers.

"This is a good example of the EU at its best, extending services, getting rid of red tape, and making it easier for travellers to get treatment if they fall ill anywhere in Europe. However, people should not delay in getting their applications in."