Wilson warns bikers over Isle of Man healthcare agreement
East Antrim MP Sammy Wilson has expressed his concern at the axing of free healthcare treatment for UK citizens who visit the Isle of Man from April onwards.
The reciprocal agreement between the Isle of Man and the UK meant that any citizen of either jurisdiction could receive free healthcare in both countries, but this will finish at the end of March.
The MP said:
“A number of constituents made me aware that the agreement is coming to an end and I contacted the Minister of State, Gillian Merron, to highlight their concerns. Unfortunately the Department of Health said that the agreement did not represent good value for money and they intend to terminate the agreement on the 31st March. This will affect the many thousands of bikers from Northern Ireland who visit the Isle of Man for the TT races, the Manx Grand Prix and those who holiday there.
I am concerned that many bikers will not be aware of this change, and although UK citizens will receive free accident and emergency treatment in the Isle of Man, they will have to pay for further emergency treatment and non emergency secondary care services.
I would therefore encourage bikers and holiday makers who intend to visit the Isle of Man after March to take out insurance to protect themselves against medical bills that they might find themselves handed if they need treatment.”
Tags: healthcare, isle of man, sammy wilson
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