French public service updates health insurance and workplace safety plans

The French public sector is undergoing significant changes regarding health insurance and occupational safety. A recent joint steering committee meeting addressed issues with the new mandatory collective health insurance contract managed by MGEN-CNP Assurances.

Representatives from the CFDT union reported several difficulties on the ground, including mismanagement of contract affiliations for temporary staff and trainee civil servants. Concerns were also raised regarding the financial impact of restructuring MGEN's social actions, which has led to the removal of certain benefits, such as orphan allowances, and difficulties in accessing social support funds for low-income workers. Additionally, there have been reports of poor communication and delayed options for retirees to join the collective contract.

Separately, a new occupational health plan for the public service has been established for the 2026-2030 period. Following the model of the private sector, this plan aims to enhance prevention through the mandatory creation of professional risk assessment documents by all public employers. The plan also seeks to address emerging risks associated with climate change and the deployment of artificial intelligence in the workplace.