15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in France

"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 an expat in Bordeaux.

"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.

"I would first ask you to define 'expensive" because if you are American, health insurance and health care in Montpellier (and all over France, for that matter) are extremely affordable. France is well-known and respected for its wide access to high quality health care at an price. As a result, those from lower socio-economic sectors are able to access the French health care system. I'm 56 and Cigna recently quoted me $1,350 for a one-year plan with a $7,500 deductible and a $2 million per year limit. A visit to my primary care physician is 45 euros. Both of those would be completely unfathomable in the US," said one expat living in Montpellier.

"~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.

"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," 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," said one expat living in Bordeaux.

"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," 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," said one expat living 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.

"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," commented one expat who moved to 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," commented one expat who moved to France.

"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," said one expat.