Access to health care in France is based on the principle of national solidarity, where healthy individuals contribute to financing the medical expenses of the sick. Affiliation with the French Health Insurance is compulsory for any person working or residing in France on a regular and stable basis. It is necessary to receive medical treatment.
To enroll in the French Health Insurance, you need to visit the local primary health insurance fund (CPAM) in the department where you reside, whether you are employed or never worked in France. Children under the age of 18 are usually affiliated with their parents’ health insurance.
Depending on your situation, you will be affiliated with a specific health insurance scheme. The Universal Health Coverage (PUMA) guarantees that any person who works or resides in France regularly and steadily is entitled to the continuous coverage of medical expenses throughout their lifetime.
Once you have enrolled in the health insurance system, you will receive a registration number that is required to obtain a Carte Vitale. This smart card contains all the administrative information necessary to cover your medical expenses.
Your Carte Vitale may be required when visiting a doctor, pharmacist, medical laboratory, radiology center, or a hospital. Every medical act performed by a doctor, hospital or pharmacy is subject to a pricing structure. The medical expenses may be partially covered by the health insurance or private health insurance policies. It is essential to verify with the health care provider the fees and the reimbursement rate.
Affiliating with the French Health Insurance is a crucial step towards ensuring that you receive quality healthcare services in France.