Medical and Dental

On duty overseas?

As far as possible, medical and dental treatments whilst abroad on duty or assignment are provided at the same standard as the United Kingdom National Health Service. On large stations abroad, this is generally provided by Naval doctors and dentists or by the medical staff of one of the other Services. If Service facilities are not available, treatment is arranged privately with local civilian doctors, hospitals or dentists and the Royal Navy refunds the fees.

Holidaying abroad?

The MOD is not responsible for any medical or dental expenses incurred by Service personnel or their dependants during leave periods taken outside the UK or the country of posting. You are strongly advised to take out medical insurance before going abroad on leave or if stationed overseas before taking leave outside that country.

It is also advisable to obtain a FREE European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) if you are in a country that is part of the European Economic Area

The EHIC will allow you access to the same state-provided healthcare as a resident of the country you are visiting. However, many countries expect the patient to pay towards their treatment, and even with an EHIC, you might be expected to do the same. You may be able to seek reimbursement for this cost when you are back in the UK if you are not able to do so in the other country.

The EHIC is NOT an alternative to travel insurance. It will not cover any private medical healthcare or the cost of things such as mountain rescue in ski resorts, repatriation to the UK or lost or stolen property.