France Reduces Health Reimbursements but Exempts Long-Term Illnesses

The government announces a 5% cut in medical and medication reimbursements, while maintaining full coverage for 13 million patients with severe or chronic conditions.

• The French government plans to reduce the reimbursement rate for medical consultations and medications by 5% starting in 2025, citing budgetary pressures on the national health system.
• Patients with long-term illnesses, such as cancer or other severe conditions, will continue to receive full coverage for their treatments and medications.
• The changes are expected to shift costs to private health insurers, which may lead to higher premiums for policyholders, particularly affecting retirees and self-employed individuals with individual insurance plans.
• The government aims to save approximately €900 million annually but has faced criticism for not pursuing structural reforms to address inefficiencies in the healthcare system.
• Concerns over rising healthcare costs and potential medication shortages remain, with officials promising measures to mitigate these risks but offering no guarantees.

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Libération Sud Ouest Le Point