How does it work?
Access to healthcare abroad
EU citizens have the right to receive healthcare in another Member State. This may include planned treatments—such as diagnostics or surgery—as well as unexpected situations, including illness or accidents. In most cases, part or all of the costs can be reimbursed by the patient’s home country, depending on national rules.
Health data can travel too
Cross-border healthcare is not only about physical access to services—it also includes the secure exchange of health data. Prescriptions issued in one country or a patient summary created at home can be accessed by healthcare professionals in another Member State. This also enables medicines to be dispensed abroad. This exchange is supported by MyHealth@EU and the National Contact Points for eHealth (NCPeH).
Simpler, safer and more transparent care
The aim is to ensure that citizens who work, study, or spend extended time abroad can receive healthcare of the same quality as in their home country. This is supported by EU legislation, including Directive 2011/24/EU on patients’ rights in cross-border healthcare, as well as by shared European standards.
Stronger patient rights
EU citizens have the right to:
- receive clear information about healthcare options abroad
- choose to access treatment in another Member State
- benefit from transparent reimbursement procedures