The EHIC replaced the E111 form in January of 2006. E111 forms are no-longer valid. You should therefore ensure that you have the EHIC prior to travelling.
The EHIC is available free of charge through the department of health’s website…
www.dh.gov.uk/travellers
www.ehic.org.uk
If you prefer you can telephone 0845 606 2030.
The EHIC is valid within the economic area and Switzerland. The EHIC form will ensure that if you are suddenly taken ill or have an accident during your visit any necessary medical treatment will be provided for free or at a reduced costs. Only state provided treatment is covered and you will be treated on the same terms as any insured nationals of the country that you are visiting. Private treatment is generally not covered, and state provided treatment may not cover all the things that you would expect to receive on the NHS. The EHIC does not cover you for all the medical costs that you can incur or for repatriation. It is not an alternative to travel insurance. It is therefore paramount that have full travel insurance arranged prior to travel.
The Italian National Health Service is run by the Servizo Sanitario Nazinale (SSN). This is the Italian equivalent to the NHS in the UK.
In order to register with a local doctor in Italy you will have to have a residence permit and pay taxes. Beware that if you need to visit a doctor there is not an appointment system and you will have to wait your turn.
Emergency Contact Numbers
113 – Police
118 – Ambulance
115 – Fire
The nationally recognised EU emergency contact number 112