As a foreigner living in Aix-en-Provence, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?

"Yes, as a foreigner living in Aix-en-Provence, France, you will have access to public healthcare. France has a universal healthcare system, which is funded by the government through taxes. The healthcare system in France is known for its high quality of service and accessibility. It covers a wide range of health services, including general practitioners, specialists, hospital care, and prescription drugs. However, it's important to note that while the public healthcare system covers a large portion of the costs, it does not cover everything. Most residents in France also have a supplementary private health insurance, known as a "mutuelle", to cover the remaining costs. As a foreigner, you will need to register with the French Social Security system to access public healthcare. This can be a complex process, especially if you do not speak French. Once registered, you will receive a health insurance card, known as a Carte Vitale, which you will need to present when you visit a doctor or hospital. The quality of healthcare in Aix-en-Provence, like the rest of France, is generally very high. The city has several hospitals and clinics, and many doctors and nurses speak English. However, waiting times can be long, especially for non-emergency appointments. In terms of cost, the French healthcare system is based on a reimbursement model. This means that you pay upfront for your healthcare services, and then you are reimbursed a percentage of the cost by the government. The amount you are reimbursed depends on the type of treatment and the doctor you see. Overall, while the French healthcare system can be complex to navigate, especially for foreigners, it provides high-quality and accessible healthcare services," remarked another expat in Aix-en-Provence , France.