France healthcare reform proposal sparks medical community concern

A proposed healthcare reform in France is causing significant concern among medical professionals. The initiative, reportedly developed by the President and his advisors, seeks to shift the current payment model from fee-for-service to a capitation system.

Under the current system, a general practitioner consultation costs approximately €26. The proposed reform would replace this with an annual subscription model, potentially charging patients a €60 annual fee to be shared among five practitioners. This fixed sum would cover all care provided throughout the year, regardless of the number or type of consultations.

Medical professionals, including specialists, warn that this change could lead to a 50% to 70% decrease in their income. Experts suggest this financial shift could result in a mass disengagement of practitioners from the healthcare system.