Healthcare abroad
Healthcare in France: pay first, claim most of it back
Your GHIC covers state healthcare in France, but it's rarely free. You normally pay the doctor or pharmacy and claim back around 70% of the official rate. Mountain rescue and repatriation aren't covered, so travel insurance is essential, especially for skiing.
- GHIC accepted
- Some free urgent care
- No free healthcare
- Very high costs
French healthcare is excellent. Look for doctors who are 'conventionné' (signed up to the state system), as they charge the official rates. Keep the 'feuille de soins' form they give you, as you'll need it to claim money back.
Where care differs
- State hospitals and conventionné doctorsGHIC accepted
Show your GHIC. You pay part of the cost and can claim most of it back.
- Private clinics and non-conventionné doctorsNo free healthcare
Charge above the official rates. Your insurer may need to approve first.
- Ski slopes and mountainsNo free healthcare
Rescue from the slopes is charged in full and not covered by the GHIC. Check your policy covers winter sports.
Claiming your money back
Send your 'feuille de soins' and receipts to the local health insurance office (CPAM) before you leave France, or claim from NHS Overseas Healthcare Services when you're home. Refunds can take a few weeks.
Before you go
- Pharmacies (green cross) are a good first stop for minor problems and can tell you which doctors are nearby.
- Emergency number: 112, or 15 for an ambulance (SAMU).
- For winter sports, make sure your insurance covers piste rescue and helicopter evacuation.
Official advice: FCDO health advice for France
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