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Health officials from Guernsey and the Isle of Man have come to an ‘in principle’ agreement to introduce a reciprocal healthcare agreement between the two islands.
The agreement, which is expected to be finalised in the next few days, will apply for the duration of the air bridge that is currently in place with the Isle of Man.
The Manx island is the only place that people in Guernsey can currently travel to without any restrictions.
The agreement that has been reached in principle applies to emergency care only and any air ambulance provision that is needed to the UK.
Guernsey/IOM. Talking to UK.
— Heidi Soulsby #ReviveandThrive (@HeidiSoulsby) August 5, 2020
Pictured: HSC President Heidi Soulsby said Bailiwick officials are still talking to the UK about some form of reciprocal health agreement.
It means that Guernsey and Isle of Man travellers who fall ill and require emergency treatment while holidaying in the other island will not have to pay for the care they receive. This does not apply to GP visits, dentist appointments or ambulance services, which will all still need to be paid for.
"The air bridge between our jurisdictions has provided a great opportunity for islanders to travel whilst the rest of our neighbouring jurisdictions are still experiencing lock down restrictions," said HSC President Heidi Soulsby. "Whilst travellers are encouraged to secure their own travel insurance to cover unforeseen eventualities such as the need for emergency healthcare, we are aware that this is not an option for all travellers.
Pictured: Deputy Soulsby said the agreement could be struck as early as today, but may not be finalised until early next week.
"This arrangement, which has been negotiated at pace, provides essential medical cover for travellers to both jurisdictions whilst the air bridge is in place."
Once approved, the reciprocal health agreement will come into effect immediately.
Pictured top: Noble's Hospital in the Isle of Man and the Princess Elizabeth Hospital in Guernsey.
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