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Important Information for anyone travelling to the UK from 1st April 2010 onwards 24 March 2009 The Department of Heath and Social Security has produced a new information leaflet regarding the termination of the Reciprocal Health Agreement between the Isle of Man and the United Kingdom from the 1st April 2010. The agreement between the Island and the UK allows residents of both countries to receive free emergency health care if they are taken ill when visiting the other country. The agreement has been in place for many years but the UK Government has decided to bring it to an end from the 1st April 2010. The Department has produced a leaflet to inform Island residents of the changes, including some frequently asked questions which will help people understand how the changes may affect them. Isle of Man residents will still receive treatment at a UK hospital Accident and Emergency Department, a ‘walk in’ centre or immediately necessary treatment from a UK GP free of charge. Also, patients who have been referred to a UK hospital by their Consultant in the Isle of Man will still receive their treatment free of charge. What will change is that if an Isle of Man resident has to be admitted to hospital in the UK as an emergency case, charges will be made for that in-patient treatment. The UK has also ended its reciprocal agreements with both Jersey and Guernsey and notice has been given to terminate agreements with other Crown Dependencies and Overseas Territories. Minister for Health and Social Security, Hon Eddie Teare MHK, said: “‘The Department is issuing information 12 months in advance to inform Island residents of the changes that will take place from the 1st April 2010. The Isle of Man Government is considering how it intends to respond to the changes that will take effect next year in terms of Manx residents visiting the UK who may require in-patient emergency medical treatment, and how it will deal with UK residents who are taken ill when on the Island. We will continue to provide information to the public as decisions are made by the Government about future arrangements.” The leaflet will be distributed to all Isle of Man homes and businesses via Isle of Man Post Office during the week of the 30th March. If you do not receive your leaflet, would like to request another copy or have any queries please contact Health Services Division on 642608, email: healthservices.dhss@gov.im or visit the Department’s dedicated web-page www.gov.im/dhss/reciprocal_agreement More stories >>>
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