The cost of medical care overseas, has soared within a year according to research from an insurance provider.

The insurance provider, Direct Line, found that the average claim for medical treatment abroad increased to £678 in 2008 from just £427 in 2007.

As a result, those planning to travel abroad are being warned to ensure they have adequate protection.

Including medical care under travel insurance is therefore vital.

However, the firm warned people travelling from Britain with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) that it should not act as a replacement as it only provides access to medical care abroad and does not cover everything that may be required.

As Chris Price, the head of Direct Line Travel, said, "Being caught without insurance in the event of an accident or falling ill could lead to you paying out hundreds, if not thousands, of pounds in medical care and repatriation costs."

And with the costs of medical treatment increasing further, holidaymakers are being advised to ensure they are insured.

He added: "We advise all holidaymakers to protect themselves by making sure they are insured against any losses in case the worst happens."

Meanwhile, the Health Authority - Abu Dhabi in Dubai, issued a new ruling which will provide orphans, prisoners and those with special needs, with a new health insurance card offering them free medical treatment.