14 December 2009
People in Jersey who are travelling to the UK over the festive period are being reminded to take out travel insurance which covers medical treatment or they could face a bill from the UK.
Earlier this year, the UK government revised the Reciprocal Health Agreement. It means most Jersey residents who have an accident or fall ill while in the UK still receive free treatment in an Accident and Emergency department (A&E) but now are charged for operations, out-patient appointments, treatment on a hospital ward and any other services needed as a result of the incident, including repatriation to Jersey.
Minister for Health and Social Service, Deputy Anne Pryke, said: “We strongly advise Jersey residents to ensure that they have comprehensive health insurance for visits to the UK – just as they would when going abroad on holiday. “
Islanders are also being urged to remind any friends and relatives from the UK who are visiting Jersey over Christmas to be covered by insurance. Visitors receive free treatment at A&E but have to pay for all other health services when being treated in the Island.
People who already have private health insurance are being advised to check their policy details as it may not cover travel to the UK.
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