UK travellers can now get free or cut-price emergency health treatment in 29 countries, including Cyprus and Malta, as a result of the enlargement last year of the European Union, Simon Moon wrote on This is Money.

But to qualify, visitors must be carrying a valid Form E111. But this year there are important changes in the way the forms work – and more changes are on the way.

The E111 covers all countries that are members of the European Economic Area (EEA), which takes in the 25 EU countries, plus Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Switzerland.

Previously one E111 could cover a whole family. Now, if the E111 was obtained before 19 August last year, you will require a separate one for each family member. Parents can apply for forms on behalf of each other and their children by completing form CM1, which is in the back of the booklet ‘Health Advice for Travellers’ available from post offices.

Alternatively, the CM1 can be downloaded from the Department of Health website, www.dh.gov.uk. You will also need a new E111 if you change your address.

Unlike private health insurance, an E111 will cover you for pre-existing conditions including maternity care. However you will not be covered if your trip is primarily to obtain treatment.

The E111 will cease to exist on 1 January 2006. Since the beginning of the year, the UK has been adopting the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). This will be automatically issued to those who apply for the new E111 form and tick the box to receive the new card.