The government has decided to double the amount of the various medical deductibles, which have never been increased since their creation. The new amounts are due to come into force gradually, by mid-June 2024.
France is the world’s third-largest spender on healthcare, accounting for almost 12% of national GDP. Health Insurance spending has risen by almost 20% between 2018 and 2022 (excluding Covid-19). Patients’ out-of-pocket expenses have fallen from 9% in 2011 to 7% in 2021: this is the lowest level in the OECD, after Luxembourg. Against a backdrop of chronichealth insurance deficits, the public authorities are calling for the French to assume greater responsibility and participate more fully in financing the healthcare system.
The new amounts, which should be phased in by mid-June, concern :
- The medical deductible, which applies to boxes of medicines and paramedical procedures (up from €0.50 to €1), and the deductible on medical transport (up from €2 to €4),
- The fixed contribution, which applies to procedures and consultations carried out by a doctor, as well as medical biology tests and analyses (from €1 to €2).
These measures apply to all policyholders, with the exception of minors, women benefiting from maternity insurance, and beneficiaries of the complementary health insurance scheme (C2S). The annual ceiling (€50) is nevertheless maintained to protect patients with serious pathologies.
