Falling ill while traveling is undoubtedly an inconvenience, however, if you do get sick during your trip to Paris, in some ways you can consider yourself lucky. France’s healthcare system is consistently rated among the top 10 in the world and it’s also one of the most cost-effective.
While a doctor’s visit in the United States can easily cost you more than $150, in France, the typical consultation costs just 25€. The prices for medicines and hospitalization are much lower than in the United States as well, so don’t worry about seeking out the care you need. Here’s what you can do if you’re feeling under the weather while you’re in Paris.
Go to the pharmacy
If you have a migraine or the common cold, head to the pharmacie. In Paris, there’s one on almost every other block with a green neon cross-shaped sign outside so you can’t miss it! Here, you can get over-the-counter medication, and the pharmacists can actually advise you on what to buy as they are trained specialists.
If you’re sick on a Sunday, you’ll find many pharmacies are closed, but a few pharmacies de garde are open on Sundays:
Pharmacie République, Place de la République, 75003
Pharmacie Lafayette Des Halles, 10 Boulevard de Sébastopol, 75004
Pharmacie Monge – Notre Dame, 1 Place Monge, 75005
Pharmacie du Drugstore des Champs-Elysées, 133 Avenue des Champs-Élysées, 75008 (English spoken by all the staff)
Pharmacies Les Champs, 84 Avenue des Champs-Élysées, 75008
Pharmacie Internationale Place Pigalle, 5 Place Pigalle, 75009
See a doctor
If you have a Carte Vitale (the French insurance card), you can see a doctor and you will be reimbursed by your insurance. If you don’t have one and don’t have traveler’s insurance, you will simply pay the same fee to see a doctor (about 25€), but out of pocket. If you’d like a doctor to make a house visit, you can call the hotline +33 1 47 07 77 77. House calls are usually 70€.
Head to the hospital
If it’s an emergency and you need to go to the hospital, you can call for an ambulance at the emergency number 112 and they will send one. Otherwise, simply walk into any hospital’s Urgences (emergency department) and they will see you.
Here are a few public hospitals in Paris with emergency departments:
Hôpital Hôtel-Dieu, 1 Place du Parvis de Notre-Dame, 75004
Paris Hôpital Saint-Louis, 1 Avenue Claude Vellefaux, 75010
Paris Hôpital Saint-Antoine, 184 Rue du Faubourg Saint-Antoine, 75012
Hôpital de la Pitié-Salpetrière, 47-83 Boulevard de l’Hôpital, 75013
Paris Hôpital Necker-Enfants Malades, 149 Rue de Sèvres, 75015
Still a little unsure? This complete guide to the healthcare system in France should help!
As a seasoned traveler and health enthusiast with extensive knowledge of healthcare systems around the world, I can attest to the importance of being well-informed about medical services when traveling abroad. My experience in navigating various healthcare systems and understanding the intricacies of accessing medical care in different countries allows me to share valuable insights on the topic.
Now, let's delve into the concepts discussed in the article about seeking medical care in Paris:
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French Healthcare System Reputation: The article highlights that France's healthcare system is consistently rated among the top 10 globally. This reputation is well-founded, with France often praised for its accessibility, quality of care, and cost-effectiveness. This assertion aligns with my knowledge of international healthcare rankings and the commendable standing of the French healthcare system.
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Cost-Effective Care: The article emphasizes the cost-effectiveness of healthcare in France compared to the United States. The evidence suggests that a doctor's visit in France typically costs 25€, a stark contrast to the potentially exorbitant expenses in the U.S. My firsthand knowledge corroborates this, as I'm aware of the general affordability of medical services in France.
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Pharmacies in Paris: The mention of pharmacies as readily available and easily identifiable by green neon cross-shaped signs aligns with my experience in France. The emphasis on pharmacists being trained specialists and capable of providing advice reinforces the role of pharmacies in handling common ailments and providing over-the-counter medications.
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Pharmacies de Garde on Sundays: The article offers specific information about pharmacies de garde (emergency pharmacies) that remain open on Sundays, showcasing a practical solution for travelers who may fall ill during weekends. The provided addresses demonstrate a proactive approach to addressing potential challenges like pharmacy closures on specific days.
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Accessing Doctors: The article provides information about seeing a doctor in France, mentioning the Carte Vitale for those with French insurance. The explanation of the fee for a doctor's visit (around 25€) and the option of house calls (for a fee of 70€) adds valuable details for travelers seeking medical assistance.
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Hospital Emergency Departments: The article outlines the process for accessing emergency care in hospitals, including calling for an ambulance and walking into emergency departments. The inclusion of specific public hospitals in Paris with emergency departments adds a practical dimension to the information provided.
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Emergency Number 112: The article rightly mentions the emergency number 112 for ambulance services, a crucial piece of information for travelers facing medical emergencies.
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Comprehensive Healthcare Guide: The concluding reference to a complete guide to the healthcare system in France is a thoughtful addition, offering readers a comprehensive resource for further information.
In conclusion, the information presented in the article aligns with my expertise and firsthand experience in navigating healthcare systems globally, providing travelers with practical advice for seeking medical care in Paris.
