WHERE TO GET HEALTHCARE HELP
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ADVICE ON HEALTH COVER ABROAD: MASTA (Medical Advisory Services for Travellers Abroad) operates a Travellers Healthline on 0891 224100 which operates on a premium rate line (39p/min cheap-49p/min at other times). Operators can call for advice on immunisation and healthcare provisions needed for countries they are running to. MASTA sends back full details in hard copy.
COVER IN EU COUNTRIES: Form E110 allows an operator to claim back money paid for healthcare provided in other EU countries. Form is carried by the driver and is valid for three months. Operators must then reapply for new form to the International Services dept. of the Contributions Agency in Newcastle on 06451 54811. There is no charge for the form. (NB Form El 11 is for those holidaying in EU countries, rather than working).
RAPID REPATRIATION: If a driver is involved in a serious accident abroad you may have to get him back to the UK fast. International insurance broker Bain Hogg has set up joint insurance companies with both the FTA (FTA Insurance Services) and the RHA (RHA Insurance Services) with each offering cover for international haulage members. The RHAIS's Roadway Repatriation and Medical Insurance scheme covers all countries in western and southern Europe including Turkey, as well as many Eastern European countries, for an annual premium of 2102.50 per vehicle plus Insurance Premium Tax.
Cover can be further extended to all North African countries and Middle Eastern states (not Iran and Iraq) for an annual premium of E205 {plus IPT). The scheme covers the cost of repatriation by road or air up to £30,000 and provides personal accident benefits up to £15,000 and hospital benefits up to £500. It will also cover the cost of flying out a replacement driver up to £500. It operates on a 24hour freephone line. Birmingham-based RHAIS can be contacted on 0121 643 7573. FTAIS offers a similar service to members through its Canterbury office on 01227 451717.
For non-FTA/RHA members FMW Corporate Risks of Chelmsford offers a policy called TravelMed with similar cover. Contact 01245 348500. Europ Assistance of Croydon normally operates its medical assistance and repatriation service on behalf of major insurance companies. It can also provide the above on a non-insured basis, on payment of an advance charge. Call 0181 680 7080.