What are the differneces between England and France concerning the medical system?

Question

Keep it simple if it is possible

Answer 1

England has a socialized system called NHS, which means that:

- it is free for everyone

- doctors are salaried by the state (pro is they don't do it for the money/ con is they are not always very motivated by their job) and patients don't pay anything

- you cannot choose your doctor, you have to go to the local one that you depend on based on your address.

- for surgery the system is saturated and there are waiting lists (so some people end up going to the expensive private system)

- for prescription drugs, I don't know if it's the same for everyone but when I lived in England, I had to pay a co-pay of 4 pounds (back in 1990) at the chemist's (pharmacy) regardless of how much the treatment was.

In France, the system is more or less private: you go to any doctor you want anywhere in France and doctors operate in private practices. But everyone is covered by a national health insurance (the money is deducted from your paycheck). It covers 65% to 100% of medical costs (depending on medical costs). Very-low income people get free health care. For what is not covered people can buy a private "mutuelle" (non-profit complementary health insurance for 10 to 50 euros a month).

- When you go to your doctor, you present your insurance card which is electronically processed so the doctor gets paid by the insurance (or you can pay the doctor and then you get reimbursed by your insurance).

- there are no waiting lists

From a patient's perspective this system works perfectly, it's great, you get great quality care for minimal cost (it represents 0.75% of an employee's paycheck). Cons: it costs employers a lot (12.8% of employee's salary) and there is a big deficit of several billion euros in the health insurance budget.

A lot of English people come to France to get treated to avoid waiting lists.

Answer 2

Well, there is a shortage of dentists in England.

But seriously, I am in no position to comment on this Q.

Answer 3

France is better it's sure.

many english people go to France for the medical.

And in France is free

voila voila bye

Answer 4

Keep it simple?  An earlier respondent didn't read that bit.  Anyway, differences ...

1  In UK it's free, in France most patients incur a very small charge.

2  In UK the medics are a bunch of self-seeking, precious and moneygrabbing vermin.  In France they take true pride in their profession and genuinely care.