The French Health service has been voted one of the best in the world in relation to the service and the actual care provided. There is nothing like the problem of NHS waiting lists experienced in Britain, patients are treated for illnesses as and when they need. However like many aspects of French life, the system is highly bureaucratic.
In order to receive health care, you have to register with the CPAM (Caisse Primaire Assurance Maladie). Unlike in Britain, in France you have to pay for health care upfront. After registering with the CPAM you will be issued with a social security number and your medical costs will be reimbursed up to the value of 70%. The remaining balance you will either have to pay yourself, or you can, as the vast majority of the French do, take out a top up insurance policy, referred to as “polices complementaires”. Eventually a ‘carte vitale’ should be issued which is a electronic card which contains information about the holder. This card is used when you go to the doctors or the chemist.
In France you have the freedom to choose your GP, however it is advised that you make sure that the doctor you chose is “conventionnée”, this means that they abide by a set tariff system, those who do not, the “non conventionnée” can charge what they like for treatment.
The pharmacy works slightly differently to the UK. When you give your carte vitale the pharmacy will only request payment for the percentage of the items which is not covered by the Social Security. It is advisable to take out some private insurance (known as Mutuelle) to cover the remaining 20-30%
As a UK/EU resident you will need an E111 form available from any main post office or travel agent. This will provide temporary cover for health care in France. The care you receive will be limited and you will have to pay a contribution towards the cost.
For those who are planning to stay in France on a long-term basis, but who are below the state retirement age, you will need an E106 form. In order to receive healthcare, you will have to register with the CPAM, and you will be covered for a limited time period dependant on the amount of national insurance contribution paid up to that point.
UK citizens who are over the retirement age and are in receipt of a pension will need an E121 form, again you will have to register with the CPAM, but your healthcare will be ongoing. If you take early retirement but have worked in the UK for the past 3 full years then an E106 form is required. This form is only valid for a limited period only.
In the case of couples applying for healthcare, only one need be over the state retirement age in order to benefit from the E121 form.
Further information about Social Security under the EC arrangements can be found in leaflet SA29, which is obtainable from the Department of Social Security, Overseas Branch, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, NE98. Information on health and medical care available in France as well as in other countries, is also given in leaflet SA30 available from the same address or from any local office of the Department of Social Security. Leaflet SA30 explains who is entitled to form E111 and contains the application for this. Students and Au Pairs should write to the Department of Social Security, Overseas Branch, Newcastle Upon Tyne NE98.
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