Health officials from both Guernsey and the Isle of Man have come to an ‘in principle’ agreement to introduce a reciprocal healthcare agreement between Guernsey and the Isle of Man for the duration of time that the current ‘Air Bridge’ is operational.
The final details of the agreement are being concluded as rapidly as possible and will come into force immediately upon approval by both jurisdictions. Cover will be limited to the provision of emergency care only, along with any associated
essential treatment required following an Emergency Department attendance.
Upon launch, no charge will be levied to a Guernsey resident visiting the Isle of Man who requires treatment in their Emergency Department and no charge will be levied to an Isle of Man resident required Emergency Department care whilst they are visiting Guernsey.
Additionally, the agreement covers air ambulance transfer from the Isle of Man and Guernsey to the United Kingdom, should a patient need specialist off-island care. The agreement will not cover GP appointments, dentists or ambulance services which remain chargeable if they are required by an individual.
Travellers will still need travel and medical insurance to meet the costs of healthcare services which are not covered by the
reciprocal health agreement, including repatriation.
Deputy Heidi Soulsby, President of the Committee for Health & Social Care said: “The Air Bridge between our jurisdictions has provided a great opportunity for Islanders to travel whilst the rest of our neighbouring jurisdictions are still experiencing lock down restrictions. Whilst travellers are encouraged to secure their own travel insurance to cover
unforeseen eventualities such as the need for emergency healthcare, we are aware that this is not an option for all travellers.
This arrangement, which has been negotiated at pace, provides essential medical cover for travellers to both jurisdictions whilst the Air Bridge is in place”.
Health & Care Minister, David Ashford, Isle of Man said: “A reciprocal health agreement between the Isle of Man and Guernsey was an obvious next step once the Air Bridge was established. No one wants to have to access emergency health care whilst on holiday but this will give some reassurance to travellers who wish to visit either Island that they will be able to access the essential services they need without incurring cost”.
