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Update on Reciprocal Healthcare Arrangements

17 December 2020

Proposing MP
Edward Argar Con
Melton and Syston
Type
Written Ministerial Statement
Department
Department of Health and Social Care
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At a Glance

Issue Summary

The statement addresses the UK's plans for reciprocal healthcare arrangements for travel to the European Economic Area or Switzerland post-Brexit Transition Period.

Action Requested

If no EU-wide agreement is reached, the Government will implement a time-limited healthcare scheme from January 1, 2021, to December 31, 2021, supporting UK residents with ongoing routine treatment needs while traveling abroad.

Key Facts

  • Current reciprocal healthcare arrangements will end on December 31, 2020.
  • The time-limited scheme covers travel from January 1, 2021 to December 31, 2021.
  • Individuals must be ordinarily resident in the UK and entitled to NHS treatment.
  • NHS Business Services Authority will deliver the scheme for the whole of the UK.
  • Travel to Ireland is exempt as both governments are committed to maintaining healthcare access between them.
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