From the 1st of Jan 2006 the E111 will be no longer valid, you haven'
t been able to get one from your PO since Sept.
It's replacement is the EHIC, which you have to send for, don't know how long it is valid for as the form I have just completed say's 3 to 5 years.
You can get a form to fill from any PO, apply on line or go to
http://www.dh.gov.uk/travellers