| Andrew Apps writes
On the face of it there is little difference between the quality of private or public medical care in hospitals in France. Being treated in private clinics in France does not mean avoiding waiting lists for the simple reason that, with a few specific exceptions, waiting lists do not exist. And going private does not mean you will have to foot the entire bill. For anyone working in France, mandatory participation in the state system is funded through employment contributions, or in some cases paid directly by an individual household through the universal medical coverage program (CMU). This is set at a rate of 8% of combined net income above a threshold and is revised quarterly (EUR 8,744 through 30 September 2009, then EUR 9,020 to 30 September 2010). The French state healthcare system is considered to be one of the best in the world. However it is not entirely free to residents as it generally only 70% of medical charges are covered requiring the individual to purchase a supplemental or what is often referred to as a “top-up” insurance to cover the balance. French law does not currently allow for medical policies that supplement or fully take the place of the coverage provided by the state to which residents of more than 90 days are eligible. Retiree expat residents of France, whilst typically exempt from making contributions to the state system, often look to take out a basic additional expatriate medical insurance policy. Most prefer insurance that will provide them not only with cover in France, but the option to seek treatment outside of the country, more often than not in their home country so that they can be close to family and friends should the need arise. ALC Health’s PRIMA Premier and Classic plans offer a comprehensive range of flexible benefits to meet the demands of expatriates living both in France and worldwide. But for those for whom the traditional expatriate medical insurance programme is perhaps not appropriate, be it in terms of cost or simple scope of cover, who are looking for a low cost alternative to those offered through local providers, ALC Health has developed the PRIMA Europa plan. If you have clients who are located in France PRIMA Europe is designed to provide a package of out-patient benefits that cover private GP fees, medication, routine check-ups and specialist medical treatment. PRIMA Europa compliments and works alongside the French Healthcare system and in addition to these already useful benefits, now offers cover for routine eye tests, prescription glasses, hearing tests, dental treatment and preventative screening for men and women to cater for ongoing health and wellbeing. The in-patient benefits provide valuable cover for non-urgent treatment and less serious medical conditions, at a realistic premium, and is exclusively available to residents of France. To find out more, call ALC Health on + 44 1903 817970 or e-mail us at sales@alchealth.com |
