Health insurance warning for TT visitors

Holidaymakers have been urged to make sure they have insurance that covers repatriation

People planning to visit the Isle of Man for the TT races have been urged to make sure they have insurance in place to cover any health care they may need.

While UK residents will be covered by the reciprocal health agreement between the two nations, anyone travelling from further afield will not be covered by it.

Although urgent and emergency treatment will be provided free of charge, and ongoing health services must be paid from, Manx Care said.

However the health care provider has urged all visitors to ensure the cover they have includes the cost of repatriation, including to the UK, which is not covered by the reciprocal agreement.

'Appropriate level'

Executive director of services Oliver Radford said the UK agreement "does not cover all eventualities", which could make it "very costly if you become ill and require healthcare support".

Visitors to the island from countries outside the UK will be expected to provide insurance information or pay bills for treatment not classed as urgent.

That includes diagnostic tests, medicines and any stay in hospital after emergency care.

Mr Radford said treatment for those needing urgent care - including those involved in road accidents - would "always be provided to anyone who needs it" as insurance queries should "never delay or prevent urgent treatment being given".

But, all holidaymakers, including those from the UK, should "ensure that you do have your own appropriate level of insurance in place" as the health agreement "does not cover all eventualities".

Visitors have also been advised to make sure they have enough prescription medication and any necessary medical equipment with them for the duration of their stay.