Healthcare in France in 2024

Healthcare in France
in 2024

Expert Insights

Healthcare in France is recognized as one of the most efficient and accessible systems worldwide, providing citizens with a high standard of medical care.

The French healthcare system combines government support, innovation in medical practice, and accessibility for all demographics. It is focused on improving the quality of life for citizens and offers a wide range of services, from preventive care to specialized treatments.

This article provides a detailed overview of how the French healthcare system works, the advantages it offers, and the opportunities it opens for residents and visitors seeking treatment or planning to stay long-term.

Why is Healthcare in France Considered Exceptional?
How Does Healthcare Work in France?
Public Clinics in France
Private Clinics in France
Pharmacies and Specialists in France
FAQ

Why is Healthcare in France Considered Exceptional?

France’s healthcare system ensures quality services through government backing and medical innovation, while also guaranteeing equal access to care for all residents.

How Does Healthcare Work in France?

France has around 1,400 public and private clinics, many of which provide certain services free of charge under standard insurance policies. Prominent healthcare hubs include Paris, Bordeaux, Lille, Strasbourg, Rennes, Nantes, and Lyon.

The healthcare budget accounts for about 12% of France’s GDP, rivaling countries like the Netherlands and Switzerland. It is partially funded through mandatory social security contributions by employees and employers. For economically disadvantaged individuals, the system offers 100% coverage, including extended treatment and rehabilitation. Similarly, pregnant women (from six months onward) are fully covered.

Public Clinics in France

Public hospitals in France provide high-quality care at an affordable cost. Most residents receive care here, with partial expenses covered by the state insurance system.

Unlike private clinics that specialize in specific areas, public hospitals are multidisciplinary. Renowned public hospital networks include Assistance Publique – Hôpitaux de Paris, Hospices Civils de Lyon, and CHU Lille.

Highlights of Leading Hospitals

Assistance Publique – Hôpitaux de Paris (APHP)
A national network offering treatment, medical staff training, and research in over 50 areas of modern medicine. It specializes in cancer care, rare diseases, and advanced surgeries. APHP welcomes international patients, including non-residents.

Hospices Civils de Lyon
Established in 1802, this university hospital includes 14 specialized and general facilities. It is a leader in treating neurodegenerative, cardiovascular, infectious diseases, oncology, pediatrics, and organ transplantation. EU and international patients are accepted, with treatment covered based on insurance.

CHU Lille
A network employing over 16,000 specialists, this university center develops cutting-edge solutions for oncology, neurology, metabolic disorders, and infectious diseases.

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Private Clinics in France

Some private clinics are integrated into the national healthcare system, allowing government doctors to refer patients to private facilities with the necessary specialists and equipment.

Notable Private Clinics
Institut Curie
A private, non-profit institution, the Institut Curie is recognized as one of Europe's leading oncology centers by the French National Cancer Institute and the French Society of Pediatric Oncology. It specializes in treating cancer from stages 1 to 4, including complications such as metastasis and organ dysfunction. To assist international patients, the center has launched a bilingual platform for treatment requests, supported by coordinators who provide comprehensive care, including surgery and radiation therapy.

Hopital Européen
This multidisciplinary clinic provides emergency and elective care. Renowned as a leading European center for endoscopic surgery, it features six operating rooms dedicated exclusively to endoscopy and 22 for other surgical procedures. The hospital welcomes international patients and offers concierge services, translation assistance, dry cleaning, and even car wash facilities.

Hôpital Américain de Paris
Originally founded as a hospital for Americans in Paris, this private, non-profit multidisciplinary clinic has evolved into an international medical center. It provides a full range of care, from diagnostics to surgery.

Pharmacies and Specialists in France

Pharmacies play a significant role in France's healthcare system. Pharmacists can offer consultations and sell over-the-counter medications. For specialized care (e.g., cardiologists, orthopedists), referrals from general practitioners are often required, with state insurance covering a portion of the cost.

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