The new Reciprocal Health Arrangement (RHA) between the Bailiwick of Guernsey islands and the UK comes into force from January 1st 2023.
It will enable residents from the Bailiwick, including Alderney, to access medically necessary healthcare free of charge while they are visiting the UK, if that treatment cannot wait until the individual returns to their home jurisdiction.
It also means UK visitors will be able to access emergency healthcare during a visit to any of the Bailiwick islands.
The arrangement will also allow certain treatments to be arranged in the other jurisdiction ahead of travel that will also be free of charge, such as dialysis treatment.
Guidance documents have been published which provide detailed advice for islanders travelling to the UK, travellers to the Bailiwick and Bailiwick providers of health services. Information for students and advice regarding specific treatments are also included in these documents.
The RHA extends to the whole of the Bailiwick, so visitors to and residents of Sark and Alderney are also covered subject to some minor differences in processes due to differences in healthcare provision in each island.
Travel insurance is still strongly advised as the arrangement does not cover everything that a person may require when travelling. For example, repatriation is not covered by the RHA.
To access necessary healthcare while in the UK, Bailiwick residents should ensure they have documentation which proves their eligibility to access healthcare under the RHA, such as passport, driving licence or other proof of address/travel. UK visitors to the Bailiwick should bring their GHIC/EHIC card with them.
Any UK residents requiring necessary healthcare while in the Bailiwick must use a recognised provider. Further information can be found here or contact by email [email protected] or phone 01481 222510.
