Returning to Lithuania for Holidays? Here's What to Do for Free Medical Treatment

Lithuanians residing in EU countries and several other European nations are advised to secure a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) before visiting Lithuania, especially for emergency medical needs during holidays. The card guarantees access to essential healthcare services under the same terms as local residents, with expenses covered by the Compulsory Health Insurance Fund (VLK).

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We notice that people most often remember the European Health Insurance Card only when they need it. Illness or trauma can strike unexpectedly even while on holiday, so it is worth taking care of the card before the trip.

Rima Budginienė, an advisor at the VLK's Šiauliai branch, emphasized the importance of obtaining the EHIC before travel, as illnesses or injuries can strike unexpectedly. "We notice that people most often remember the European Health Insurance Card only when they need it," she stated. The card is crucial for immediate medical attention, such as treating fractures, pneumonia, or asthma flare-ups, provided the healthcare facility has a contract with the health insurance fund.

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With the card, you can purchase doctor-prescribed subsidized medicines or medical aids at the pharmacy under the same conditions as residents of our country – upon presentation of the card and personal identification, you only need to pay the patient's co-payment.

Beyond emergency care, the EHIC can also be used in pharmacies. It allows residents to purchase prescribed subsidized medications and medical supplies under the same conditions as Lithuanian citizens, requiring only the patient's co-payment. However, for planned medical procedures, such as surgeries or specialized treatments, a different document, the S2 form, is necessary. This form must be obtained from the health insurance institution in the country of residence and allows for planned treatment in Lithuania, though some additional costs might still apply.

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Every year we see that some Lithuanians living abroad choose planned treatment in their homeland. For some, it is important to communicate with doctors in their native language, for others – to be treated closer to relatives or by a specific specialist.