ChantillyExpat.com

Seeing a Doctor

Do I have to register first?

Simple answer, no. Up until last year (2005) there was no need to register with any doctor and there was no restriction on calling any doctor you could find in the phone book. However, due to the spiralling costs facing the state the government introduced a new restriction in 2005, the so-called 'médicin traitant'.

From the time the law came into effect, everyone over the age of 16 should nominate a doctor to be their first port of call. If you do not do this, the amount reimbursed from your CPAM will be reduced - that is your doctor visit will cost you more. It is very simple to nominate a doctor, simply download this form, complete it and take it with you the next time you visit your chosen doctor. From then on to ensure the maximum reimbursement of your costs you should visit this same doctor; you can visit another but it will cost more.

If your nominated doctor needs to refer you to another doctor or specialist this will be noted on your 'feuille de soins' and you will receive the same reimboursement as if you visited your own doctor.

The idea of this new law is to allow your health to be better monitored and treated to try to reduce the enormous strain on the health system. By encouraging people to visit just one doctor it will be much easier to keep a history of any treatment or illness.

Some specialists such as physiotherapists or psychologists still require you to be referred from a doctor and will not accept you otherwise.

For more information (in French) you should visit the health authority website here. Alternatively, call your local CPAM.