In 2025, UK holidaymakers racked up £181.7 million in overseas healthcare costs, according to NHS Business Services Authority data. Spain topped the list with 41,454 claims worth £24.1 million, while Poland, the ninth‑most‑visited UK destination, ranked second with 22,249 claims costing £5.3 million.

Spain’s Surging Claim Numbers Reflect a Growing Health Burden for Britons

Spain recorded the highest number of claims, accounting for more than four in ten of all UK‑related overseas medical expenses. According to the NHS report, 41,454 cases in Spain cost £24.1 million, a figure that dwarfs the next highest country.. The sheer volume suggests that many Britons are either falling ill or sustaining injuries while in Spain, or that Spanish healthcare providers are more likely to bill UK travellers for services that might otherwise be covered under GHIC or EHIC.

Poland’s Unexpected Rise Highlights Non‑Traditional Travel Patterns

Poland’s 22,249 claims worth £5.3 million placed it ahead of France and Italy, despite being only the ninth most‑visited destination for UK tourists. Dr John Akinjolire of PayingTooMuch notes that the high ranking may reflect visits to family, longer stays,or travel outside typical holiday routes, increasing the likelihood of using local healthcare services. This trend underscores that risk does not always follow popularity.

GHIC and EHIC Expirations Add Pressure on Travelers and the NHS

The NHS findings come as 1.29 million GHIC cards are due to expire this year, with 62 % expiring during the summer months, and an additional 157,866 EHIC cards set to lapse.. While these cards grant access to state healthcare in many European countries, treatment is not always free; travelers may need to pay upfront, cover prescriptions, or claim expenses later. The impending expirations could push more Britons into out‑of‑pocket costs.

Uncertain Coverage: When GHIC and EHIC Fall Short

Despite the promise of free or reduced‑cost treatment, the NHS report reveals that many travelers still face significant out‑of‑pocket expenses. Dr Akinjolire warns that GHICs should not be relied on alone, as costs can rise quickly, especially during lengthy hospital stays. The report raises the question of whether UK taxpayers should continue to subsidize these expenses or if travelers should bear the full cost.

Key Questions for Policy and Travel Planning

Which specific medical services are most frequently claimed by UK travelers in Spain and Poland? How will the upcoming card expirations affect the number of claims and the overall cost to the NHS? And what measures can travelers take to protect themselves from unexpected medical bills abroad?

According to the NHS Business Services Authority, more than 102,000 claims were made using EHIC and GHIC cards in 2025 alone , highlighting how often Britons become ill or injured while traveling. The findings call for a closer look at both card coverge and traveler preparedness.