French thermal spa reimbursement dispute

The French Ministry of Health has proposed transferring €200 million in thermal spa treatment costs from national health insurance to private complementary insurers. This move aims to reduce public spending by shifting the burden away from Social Security, which currently covers 65% of these costs.

Medical professionals and local directors have criticized the proposal, with Marie-Hélène Blanque of the Grands Thermes describing the decision as a “disguised reimbursement cut” and a “denial of democracy,” noting that the government is proceeding before the Haute Autorité de Santé has finished evaluating treatment effectiveness.

Beyond medical concerns, the proposal has sparked economic fears in spa towns such as Challes-les-Eaux, Bourbonne-les-Bains, and Plombières-les-Bains. Local officials and Senator Hussein Bourgi warn that the shift could devastate regional economies reliant on medical tourism and lead private insurers to increase premiums or deny coverage, potentially dealing a “fatal blow” to the 88 thermal centers across France. Patients have emphasized that these treatments are essential medical interventions for chronic pain rather than leisure activities.