MEPs call for optional Euro health cards

Date: 28/03/1996

PLANS are being hatched to introduce voluntary European health cards. These would contain relevant medical information to enable holders to gain access to appropriate health care and treatment in any member state.

Pressure for the cards, which are intended to make it easier for people to travel from one EU country to another, is coming from MEPs. They are expected to call on the European Commission next month to come forward with specific proposals by the beginning of next year.

The initiative is contained in a report prepared by Giacomo Leopardi, a pharmacist and an Italian member of the Union for Europe group. He argues the optional computerised cards should be introduced by 1999 to meet the EU's obligation of ensuring the highest level of health protection for its citizens.

The cards would contain data on the holder's social insurance cover and right to reimbursement, and various medical details such as the carrier's blood group, any known allergies, medication and treatment details, information on blood transfusions and organ donation for medical use.

Pilot schemes involving 500,000 cards in ten member states are already in operation.