Rising healthcare Costs: French Patients Face Potential Franchise Doubling
French patients could soon see a meaningful increase in their out-of-pocket healthcare expenses as teh government considers doubling medical franchises – the fixed fees patients pay for healthcare services. Currently, a consultation with a doctor costs patients €1, a fee that has already risen from €0.50 just a year and a half ago. The proposed changes would increase this to €4,and the cost of a prescription box or medical transport would jump to €2.
These increases apply even to individuals covered entirely by Social Security, including those receiving assistance under the Aide à la Longue Durée (ALD) scheme. Currently exempt from these fixed fees, medical devices like hearing aids, glasses, and crutches would also be subject to the €1 deduction.
The annual ceilings beyond which these franchises and contributions are waived would also double, moving from €50 to €100. A separate annual ceiling is also planned specifically for medical transport costs.
The government’s move aims to increase patient accountability for healthcare costs, though its effectiveness remains debated. This comes at a time when supplementary health insurance (mutuelles) are already experiencing price hikes, perhaps creating a significant financial burden for many.
Consumer advocacy group UFC-Que Choisir strongly opposes the doubling of franchises and their ceilings. They are urging parliamentarians to reject proposals that would extend these fees to dental care and medical devices.
Nutri-Score and Alcohol Advertising Taxes Also Under Consideration
Alongside the potential healthcare cost increases, the National Assembly recently voted to make the Nutri-Score labeling system mandatory on food advertising, unless manufacturers opt to pay a 5% tax on their turnover to avoid displaying it. An amendment also proposes exempting products with official quality signs (AOC, PGI, STG, Red Label, etc.) from the Nutri-Score requirement to protect local products.
Furthermore, a tax on advertising for alcoholic beverages is being considered for companies with over €10 million in annual revenue, with proceeds earmarked for addiction fighting funds.
However, these votes are not final and must still be reviewed and approved by the Senate.
