top cx logo
cx logo
Explorearrow down
search icon

Is my operation in a French private clinic reimbursable?

We answer a reader question: Will I be reimbursed if I have an operation in a private clinic in France?

Question:

My doctor has suggested I have an operation in a private clinic – will this be reimbursed by the French social security system? G.F.

Answer:

This depends on whether or not the private clinic has a partnership with the state assurance maladie system. If it does, it is referred to as a clinique privée conventionnée and your hospitalisation costs will be covered on the same basis as if you have the operation in a public hospital.

This is a common arrangement and many French “hospitals” come under this banner. Strictly speaking, the term hôpital refers only to state-run establishments. In this case, the assurance maladie covers 80-100% of basic hospitalisation costs, minus €20/day called the forfait journalier. Where someone is in the clinic for a procedure normally costing €120 or more (un acte lourd), the reimbursement is at 100% minus a set figure of €24.

Apart from the forfait journalier, you may have to pay any dépassements d’honoraires – amounts over and above the usual state tariff – practised by your doctor/s and for any extras you asked for, such as having a private room. Some of these costs may be covered by your mutuelle top-up insurance, if you have one. Check the clinic’s status with your doctor to avoid ending up paying in full.

More reader questions, answered: Can I visit the UK from France for less than 14 days?

Resident or second-home owner in France?
Benefit from our daily digest of headlines and how-to's to help you make the most of life in France
By joining the newsletter, you agree to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy
See more popular articles
The Connexion Help Guides
featured helpguide
Healthcare in France*
Featured Help Guide
- Understand the French healthcare system, how you access it and how you are reimbursed - Useful if you are new to the French healthcare system or want a more in-depth understanding - Reader question and answer section Aimed at non-French nationals living here, the guide gives an overview of what you are (and are not) covered for. There is also information for second-home owners and regular visitors.
Get news, views and information from France