Private Health Insurance vs Travel Insurance and GHIC
Published: 4 November 2026
UK private medical insurance (PMI), travel insurance and a Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) are different forms of cover. Having one does not automatically mean you have the protection provided by the others.
What a GHIC does
A UK GHIC can give eligible UK residents access to medically necessary state healthcare during a temporary stay in the European Economic Area and certain other countries. Treatment is provided on the same basis as for a resident of that country. That may be free, or may involve a local patient charge. A GHIC does not cover private treatment or planned treatment abroad.
The NHS says a GHIC is not a replacement for travel insurance. Travel insurance can cover other trip-related risks, subject to its terms, and may include emergency medical expenses and arrangements for returning home. Read the specific policy to see what it covers.
What to check in your PMI
A UK health insurance policy is primarily designed around eligible private treatment under its own terms. Some policies offer limited overseas benefits, while others do not. Check the policy territory, emergency and evacuation wording, exclusions, benefit limits and whether the insurer must approve treatment before it happens.
Do not assume that PMI will pay for planned treatment abroad, private hospital care overseas or repatriation. These are different from receiving necessary state care through a GHIC.
For cover designed for a trip, compare travel insurance and check the insurer’s medical-condition questions. For UK private treatment, see our guides to overseas cover on UK health insurance and what health insurance covers.
Compare UK policy options: see health insurance plans.
Sources checked 4 November 2026
General information only. GHIC eligibility and insurance cover depend on residence, destination and policy terms.