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Healthcare and Health Insurance in France | Expat Exchange
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Angers, France

15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in France

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Mar 10, 2024

Summary: The quality of medical care in France is generally considered to be very high. France has a universal healthcare system that provides access to medical care for all citizens, and the country is known for its excellent doctors and hospitals. Emergency services in France are also very reliable and efficient. In the event of an emergency, you can call the national emergency number, 112, to request an ambulance.

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French Riviera House Hunting - FRH
French Riviera House Hunting - FRH

How are healthcare services France?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in France, they replied:

"Healthcare services in France are provided by a public healthcare system, known as the French Social Security system. This system is funded by contributions from employers and employees, as well as by the government. The quality of public healthcare in France is generally considered to be very good, with access to a wide range of services, including preventive care, hospital care, and specialist care. Foreign residents in France are eligible to use the public healthcare system, although they may need to pay a fee for certain services. Expats in France can use the public healthcare system by registering with the French Social Security system and paying the required contributions," wrote one expat.

"It's a small town, so most doctors don't use English much. If you must communicate in English, it would help to research some of the necessary terminology beforehand (perhaps write your questions in French)," commented one expat who moved to Epinal.

"Record keeping is your responsibility and you can't do it all online. Doctors don't keep a health file for you. Top-up supplemental insurance is needed to completely cover costs," said one expat.

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What are medical services in France like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in France, they replied:

"In France, medical services are generally of a high quality. The country has a comprehensive public health system, which provides free or low-cost healthcare to all citizens. The public system is supplemented by a range of private health insurance plans, which offer more comprehensive coverage. France also has a well-developed network of hospitals and clinics, staffed by highly trained medical professionals. In addition, France has a number of specialized medical centers, such as cancer treatment centers and research institutes," remarked one expat living in France.

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Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in France?

"Very affordable, even before I was on the healthcare system I paid less than 100 euros for full x-rays and a cast for a broken wrist. With healthcare, it's simply covered thanks to higher taxes," commented one expat living in Epinal, France.

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What are emergency services like in France?

When we asked about emergency services, members in France wrote:

"Emergency services in France are generally reliable and efficient. In the event of an emergency, the best way to call for an ambulance is to dial the number 15, which is the national emergency number for medical services. The operator will then direct the call to the nearest ambulance service. It is important to provide as much information as possible, such as the exact location of the emergency, the type of emergency, and any other relevant information," wrote one expat.

"~2 km (other side of town) Hospital Center Emile Durkheim Emergency services great -- doctors speak English but with some hesitance. I went with a broken wrist and received thorough treatment with x-rays and a cast, all taking just a couple hours. If you indicate you speak French, they'll speak very quickly. But they do explain in simple English if needed. Public hospital," commented one expat who moved to Epinal.

"A number of hospitals [in Bordeaux] are nearby. Have not used emergency services, but they are provided by local fire departments. Highly personalized care at local hospital. Hospitals, clinics and specialists are all available to the public," said one expat.

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Will I need to travel to see a specialist?

"France is a large country with many different cities and areas that boast excellent medical specialists. In particular, cities like Paris, Bordeaux, Lyon, Strasbourg and Lille are renowned for boasting some of the best medical care in the world, with each of them home to a number of highly specialized medical centers and clinics. Additionally, many towns in the French Alps are known for their comprehensive selection of health and medical professionals. These regions are popular spots for winter sports enthusiasts and travelers looking for quality healthcare from experienced professionals. Regardless of the exact location, France is known for its incredibly high standard of medical care," said an expat in France.

Are common prescription medications available in France?

"Yes, common prescription medications are available in France. Most medications are available through pharmacies, and some are available over the counter. Prescription medications must be prescribed by a doctor and are typically dispensed by a pharmacist. In France, the government regulates the prices of medications, so they are generally more affordable than in other countries," commented one expat living in France.

"Yes - tons of pharmacies in town, including at least one open on Sunday. I don't have any prescriptions but my husband gets costs like glasses and contacts and shoe inserts covered through the government health insurance system," wrote one expat.

"Prescriptions are filled immediately at local pharmacies that are very well supplied and staffed. They have never been unable to supply my prescribed medications immediately. Cost is zero with supplemental insurance," commented one expat who moved to Bordeaux.

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Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in France?

"The hospital is on the edge of town but accessible by bus. Good quality care and the doctors speak English. The hospital is public and very affordable even without French health care," mentioned one expat in Epinal.

"France has a strong healthcare system, and its citizens are generally pleased with the quality of medical care they receive. Among those surveyed in a survey of the European healthcare systems conducted by the EU, 83% were satisfied with the medical care they received in the past year, far higher than the EU average of 72%. France is home to a large number of world-renowned medical facilities, with cutting edge medical technology, experienced medical staff, and a high standard of healthcare. In addition to this, many of the treatments and procedures offered in France are either covered by public healthcare or heavily subsidized, allowing citizens to receive high quality medical care without being overly burdened with the costs," commented one expat who moved to France.

As a foreigner living in France, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?

"Yes, as a foreigner living in France, you will have access to public healthcare. The French healthcare system is one of the best in the world, providing comprehensive coverage for all citizens and residents. It is funded by taxes and social security contributions, and is free at the point of use. The system is based on a network of public hospitals and clinics, as well as private providers. The quality of care is generally high, and the system is well-regarded for its efficiency and cost-effectiveness," remarked one expat living in France.

What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?

We asked expats in France if they have access to public healthcare in France. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...

"I herniated a disc in my back during lockdown and my treatment was swift and ongoing. I was able to have physiotherapy and to see a specialist. I am extremely satisfied with my treatment," commented one expat living in St Nicolas du Pelem, France.

"The pandemic has had a significant impact on the French healthcare system. The government has implemented a number of measures to ensure the safety of patients and healthcare workers, including the introduction of telemedicine, the use of protective equipment, and the implementation of social distancing protocols. Despite these measures, the healthcare system has been overwhelmed by the influx of patients, leading to long wait times and delays in care. Additionally, the pandemic has caused a shortage of medical staff, as many healthcare workers have been forced to take time off due to illness or quarantine. Despite these challenges, the French healthcare system has been able to provide quality care to those in need," wrote one expat.

What advice do you have for expats having a baby in France?

We asked expat moms who gave birth in France about their experiences and advice they have for other moms to be. They said:

"Register early!!!! Even if you aren't sure where to give birth, at least register somewhere so that you have a spot held for you," explained one expat living in Paris.

"Make sure to familiarize yourself with the maternity healthcare and delivery options available in France. It is also important to research French maternity leave policies and parental leave benefits in advance so that you are adequately informed. Ensure that you get all the necessary documents in place for any paperwork pertaining to birth registration and family updates. Additionally, make sure to check expat support groups for information and advice from other parents who may have gone through the process that you are about to experience. Finally, don’t forget to enjoy this special time and savor the moments of your new addition no matter the language barriers you may face," said one expat in France.

Are healthcare services good in France?

We asked people if they have access to good medical care in France. They wrote:

"France has an expansive public healthcare system that provides universal coverage to its citizens. Care is largely subsidized by the government, and citizens can access an array of healthcare services through their local public health network. Private practitioners, such as general clinicians and specialists, are also available for additional services that are not normally covered by the public system. Services available range from primary care to preventive care, from diagnostic testing to specialized treatments. Patients have the right to freedom of choice in selecting their healthcare provider," wrote a person living in France.

"I am covered by my US insurance but medical-dental care here is so inexpensive that I rarely make the deductable. The care is excellent. Because of the large numbers of European retirees, many people are multi-lingual," explained one expat living in Pezenas.

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About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

Angers, France

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