How to find a doctor in France: A complete guide
Table of Contents
Understanding the French healthcare system
How to find a doctor in France ? France has one of the best healthcare systems in the world, combining public and private medical services. Residents and long-term visitors can access state-funded healthcare through l’Assurance Maladie, while private insurance can cover additional costs.
Public vs. private healthcare
The public healthcare system reimburses a significant portion of medical expenses.
Many residents use a mutuelle (top-up insurance) to cover the remaining costs.
Private doctors and clinics offer faster access but may charge higher fees.
The role of the « Médecin Traitant » (General Practitioner)
In France, everyone is encouraged to register with a médecin traitant (primary care doctor). Having a designated GP ensures better coordination of care and higher reimbursement rates from social security.
How to choose a Médecin Traitant
Find a doctor: Use online directories like Doctolib, the official Ameli website, or ask for recommendations.
Book an appointment: Contact the doctor directly or use an online booking platform.
Register your doctor: Fill out a simple form (« Déclaration de choix du médecin traitant ») with your doctor and submit it to your local CPAM office.
Using Doctolib to book a doctor’s appointment
Doctolib is the most popular online platform for finding and booking medical appointments in France.
How to use Doctolib
Go to Doctolib.fr or download the mobile app.
Enter your location and the type of doctor you need (GP, specialist, dentist, etc.).
Select an available time slot and confirm your appointment.
Receive appointment reminders and even book video consultations if needed.
Benefits of using Doctolib
Find doctors based on location, availability, and specialty.
Book appointments 24/7 online.
Access teleconsultations when in-person visits are not possible.
See doctors’ ratings and patient reviews.
Finding an english-speaking doctor in France
If you don’t speak French fluently, finding an English-speaking doctor can be challenging but not impossible.
Where to look
Doctolib: Filter by language preferences.
Angloinfo: A useful directory for expats.
Embassies and expat groups: Many embassies provide lists of recommended doctors.
International clinics: Private healthcare centers in major cities often have English-speaking staff.
Emergency medical care in France
For urgent medical needs, you have several options:
Call 15 for emergency medical assistance (SAMU).
Call 112 (European emergency number).
Go to the nearest hospital’s emergency department (Urgences).
Visit a walk-in medical center (Maison Médicale de Garde) for non-life-threatening conditions.
Conclusion
Finding a doctor in France is straightforward, thanks to the structured healthcare system and digital platforms like Doctolib. Whether you need a GP, a specialist, or an English-speaking doctor, you can easily navigate the system by using online tools and understanding the role of a médecin traitant. Make sure to register with a doctor to receive optimal reimbursement and hassle-free healthcare services.