Health Guide · France
Seeing a Doctor in France as a Tourist: A Step-by-Step Guide
French healthcare is excellent — but the system has quirks that catch visitors off guard. Here's everything you need to know before you go.
The French healthcare system in 30 seconds
France runs a universal public healthcare system called Sécurité Sociale. Residents pay into it and get significant reimbursements on medical costs. Tourists and expats without French coverage still have full access to care — they just pay upfront and may claim back through their travel insurance or EHIC card.
What does a GP consultation cost?
A standard consultation with a French GP costs €26.50 (the official tariff for a secteur 1 doctor). Some doctors charge more (secteur 2 or 3). You pay on the spot, usually by card or cash. With an EHIC card (EU nationals), you can be reimbursed approximately 70% via your home country's system. Travel insurance often covers the remainder.
What to bring
- Passport or ID
- European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) if you have one
- Travel insurance documents
- A list of current medications (generic names, not brand names)
- Any relevant medical history or test results
How to find a doctor quickly
Options ranked by speed:
- Online consultation — instant, in English, no travel, prescription delivered by email
- Maison médicale de garde — evening/weekend walk-in medical centres
- SOS Médecins — home visit service, available in most major cities
- Hospital urgences (A&E) — for genuine emergencies, open 24/7
Do I need an appointment?
Most French GPs (généralistes) work by appointment. In cities, you can often use Doctolib (France's main booking platform) to find same-day slots. However, finding an English-speaking doctor with availability can be challenging — especially in smaller cities or during holiday periods.
Common questions
Can I see a doctor in France without French health insurance?
Yes. Any doctor in France will see you regardless of insurance. You pay the consultation fee upfront and claim reimbursement via your travel insurance or EHIC afterwards.
Is a prescription from a French doctor valid at any French pharmacy?
Yes. A prescription from any French-licensed doctor is valid at any pharmacy in France, whether issued in person or via telemedicine.
Need to see a doctor in France — in English?
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