Holidaymakers have been urged to check they have a valid European health insurance card or they could be left without protection when travelling on the continent.

About 3m European health insurance cards (EHIC) will expire in March 2009, according to figures released by the Department of Health last week. The card entitles you to reduced-cost or free healthcare in most European countries if you fall ill or have an accident while abroad.

Dr Hilary Jones, GMTV’s resident GP, said: “I’m concerned that so many holidaymakers have no idea that their EHIC will expire. If you’re travelling in Europe it’s vital that you carry an EHIC, as well as comprehensive travel insurance. If you become ill or get injured on holiday, the last thing you want to be thinking about is paying unnecessary medical bills, which could cost thousands.

"Anyone travelling with an expired EHIC is putting themselves at risk – they will not be covered for basic medical care," says Health minister Dawn Primarolo.