Description:

A guide to Healthcare in France

The French healthcare system is very efficient and waiting times for appointments are usually very short.  The state pays for a proportion of the cost if you are resident and have paid into the tax system with any extra cost being met by the patient, either from their own funds or through an insurance policy.

The system varies depending on whether you are a resident or not, although you will receive exactly the same treatment.  There are certain steps you must take to ensure that you have the correct cover.  Remember also that if visiting, travel insurance policies will not normally cover medical items that can be dealt with via reciprocal health arrangements within European countries.

Key points applicable to residents and visitors :

• Treatment is always paid for at the point of service and then reclaimed
• A consultation with a GP will cost around €25

For visitors :

• Make sure that you bring a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for each member of the party.  Application forms are available at the Post Office or you can apply online.
• The EHIC entitles you to the same treatment as a resident of the country you are visiting.
• As with any holiday, ensure that you have adequate insurance.

For residents :

• The state will only cover up to about 75% of the cost, depending on the treatment.
• You will need a Carte Vitale or Attestation to enable you to claim back anything from the French healthcare system.
• In order to get a Carte Vitale you will need to take proof of residence, copy of passport, birth certificate and marriage certificate to the Caisse Primaire Assurance Maladie (CPAM).  However, if you register a business as Auto-Entrepreneur, part of the registration process will began the process of issuing a Carte Vitale.
• You will need to choose and register with a primary doctor (Medecin Traitant), and this will help ensure the maximum refunds are obtained.

The table below helps to explain the various methods of gaining access to the French healthcare system, depending on your particular circumstances.  When moving to France, contact the department of Work and Pensions or HM Revenue and Customs well in advance to ensure that you have the relevant paperwork and up to date advice.

Useful websites :

NHS guide to Healthcare Abroad

Department of Work and Pensions

HM Revenue and Customs

Residents - What you are you entitled to and how you get it

*Category also includes people in receipt of Long Term Incapacity Benefit, and Severe Disability Allowance

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