Lyon has a public and private healthcare system that provides quality medical care to its citizens and visitors. The public healthcare system in France is called the “Caisse Primaire d’Assurance Maladie” (CPAM) and it is used by both French citizens and foreigners.
France’s Healthcare System
The public healthcare system in France is comprehensive and covers a wide range of medical services. It is generally recommended to use public hospitals in Lyon for serious medical emergencies and major surgery. Public hospitals in Lyon are well-equipped and staffed with experienced medical professionals. Foreigners, including expats and digital nomads, are allowed to use the public healthcare system in France. However, many expats choose to use private hospitals for more specialized medical care and major surgeries. Private hospitals in Lyon are well-equipped and offer a higher level of service than public hospitals. They are also more expensive than public hospitals. People recommend using private hospitals for serious medical emergencies and major surgery.
Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Lyon
- Hôpital Edouard Herriot: This is a public hospital located in the 3rd arrondissement of Lyon. It is well-equipped and specializes in cardiology, oncology, and neurology.
- Clinique du Parc: This is a private hospital located in the 6th arrondissement of Lyon. It is well-equipped and specializes in orthopedics, neurology, and oncology.
- Hôpital de la Croix-Rousse: This is a public hospital located in the 4th arrondissement of Lyon. It is well-equipped and specializes in cardiology, oncology, and neurology.
- Clinique du Rhône: This is a private hospital located in the 5th arrondissement of Lyon. It is well-equipped and specializes in orthopedics, neurology, and oncology.
Emergency Services in Lyon
Lyon has an ambulance service that can be called by dialing 15. Ambulances usually arrive quickly, but there can be delays depending on the time of day and the severity of the emergency.
Health Insurance Companies in Lyon
The most popular private health insurers in Lyon are Allianz, AXA, and Generali. Expats and digital nomads typically use these companies or specialized expat health insurance providers.
Insider Tips from Expats in Lyon: Health Care
“I’ve been living in Lyon for a few years now, and I can tell you that it’s definitely possible to live comfortably on $5,000 a month, even if you’re used to modern amenities. Of course, you might have to make some sacrifices, but overall, you can have a good quality of life here.First, let’s talk about housing. If you want to save some money, I’d recommend looking for an apartment in neighborhoods like Vaise, Montchat, or Monplaisir. These areas are more affordable, but still offer a good quality of life and access to public transportation. On the other hand, if you’re willing to spend a bit more on rent, you can consider living in more upscale neighborhoods like the 6th arrondissement, Tête d’Or, or Confluence. These areas are more expensive, but they’re also more central and offer a lot of amenities.As for transportation, Lyon has a great public transportation system, so you can save money by using the metro, tram, and buses instead of owning a car. A monthly public transportation pass costs around €60, which is quite affordable.When it comes to food, you can save money by cooking at home and shopping at local markets or discount supermarkets like Lidl or Aldi. Eating out can be expensive, especially in touristy areas, but there are also plenty of affordable restaurants and cafes if you know where to look. For example, you can find good deals on lunch menus or try some of the more affordable ethnic restaurants in the city.As for entertainment and leisure activities, there are plenty of free or low-cost options in Lyon. You can enjoy the city’s many parks, visit museums on their free admission days, or attend free concerts and events throughout the year. If you’re into sports, you can also find affordable gym memberships or join local sports clubs.In conclusion, living in Lyon on $5,000 a month is definitely doable, but you’ll need to be mindful of your spending and make some sacrifices. By choosing a more affordable neighborhood, using public transportation, and being smart about your food and entertainment choices, you can enjoy a comfortable life in this beautiful city,” commented an expat living in Lyon.
