France to shift health reimbursements to mutuelles and double co‑payment ceiling
On 24 July 2026, French Health Minister Stéphanie Rist announced that the government will transfer part of the reimbursements currently covered by the Assurance maladie to complementary health insurers (mutuelles). The transfer will target dental consultations, sanitary transport, certain medical devices and less‑effective medicines, with the aim of saving roughly €1 billion.
A separate decree will double the annual ceiling for patient co‑payments (franchises) from €100 to €200, raising the amount individuals may have to pay out‑of‑pocket each year.
The government says the reforms will not increase the overall cost to French citizens and will negotiate with mutuelles to avoid premium hikes. Patients with long‑term illnesses (ALD) will continue to receive 100 % coverage.
The French Mutualité warned that the transfer could raise complementary‑insurance premiums, arguing that the expenses will ultimately be borne by contributors.