'Health tourism' fears over EU card

Everyone in the EU may be issued with an electronic card to enable them to get health care when abroad under plans outlined today.

But a new European-wide card will raise fears that it could encourage more "health tourism" with people shopping around for the best treatment.

The card will contain some personal details, including country of residence, and may also lead to concerns that the EU is planning to introduce an ID card through the back door.

The European Commission wants the card to replace the present E111 form in Britain. At the moment Britons have to fill in the E111 and have it stamped at the post office before they become eligible for free treatment in another EU country.

Unlike the E111, the card will be valid indefinitely. It guarantees hospitals and doctors abroad that costs of treating visitors will be met by the issuing authority.

The Commission wants to bring in the new health card by 2005 and says the scheme would make it easier for people to work across EU borders. The card will not contain information about the holder's medical condition, but the intention is to make it easier for people to be seen by a doctor in another EU country.

The E111 was today dismissed as a "dinosaur from another age" by a Commission spokesman.

The Commission defended its proposal, maintaining that the new card will simplify procedures. However, any card containing-personal information would be in danger of being used informally abroad as a supplementary form of ID, even if that is not the intention.

The E111 forms are too complicated to be used easily in such a way, and thousands of people fail to obtain one before travelling abroad.

According to the EU the health card removes "an obstacle to mobility" for all who travel in the EU - and officials say it is another strong international symbol, describing it as "another piece of Europe in your pocket".

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