Doctors planning October 3 strike

DOCTORS across France are threatening strike action from October 3 for an indefinite period, to protest about reforms to the way they are paid.

Four unions representing GPs have called the walkout - and have warned of further industrial action this autumn unless a controversial health reform law is scrapped.

Their main concern is about the roll-out of the "tiers payant", meaning patients no longer have to make any up-front contribution when they see a medical professional - with the bill being picked up by the social security system from the outset.

Doctors fear this will compromise patient confidentiality as more data about their treatment will be shared across a wider network - and that medical records could one day be sold on. They also believe the changes will lead to an increase in the cost of health insurance cover for patients.