How to find a dermatologist in France
Resources to help you locate a dermatologist and considerations to bear in mind
If you have a mutuelle, check with your provider to see if they have a list of approved dermatologists
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If you are living or staying in France and need to see a dermatologist, there are several ways to find a professional who can meet your needs.
From asking for a referral to using online platforms, here's how you can find a dermatologist in France quickly and efficiently.
Ask your GP for a referral
In France, it is common to first visit your general practitioner (médecin généraliste) for a referral to a dermatologist.
Although you can book an appointment directly, getting a referral from your GP may result in higher reimbursement from la Sécurité sociale, the French public health insurance system.
Search for Dermatologists on Doctolib
One of the most popular ways to find a dermatologist in France is by using Doctolib. This platform allows you to search for healthcare professionals and book appointments online.
Go to the Doctolib homepage and type dermatologue in the first search box.
Enter your location in the second search box or click the compass icon to search nearby.
You can also filter your search to show dermatologists who speak English by clicking plus de filtres (more filters), selecting Anglais under Langues parlées, and then clicking Afficher les résultats.
Use the official French healthcare directory
The Assurance Maladie website has a directory at annuaire santé, which is the official French healthcare professional search tool.
Visit the site and search for dermatologue in the profession box.
Enter your location, leave the second row as Indifférent (meaning no specific preference), and click Rechercher to get a list of dermatologists near you.
This website ensures you are searching through a verified list of professionals.
Check the French Yellow Pages – PagesJaunes
PagesJaunes, the French equivalent of Yellow Pages, is another useful resource for finding dermatologists as it sometimes includes reviews to help you make an informed decision. To search:
Type dermatologue in the search box.
Enter your location, or click Autour de moi to search for professionals near you.
Check your mutuelle
If you have a mutuelle (complementary health insurance), check with your provider to see if they have a list of approved dermatologists.
Some insurers work with a network of medical professionals, and visiting one within this network can simplify the reimbursement process.
Get recommendations from locals
Word of mouth can be a great way to find a trusted dermatologist in France. Ask your local pharmacy, mairie, or neighbours if they can recommend a dermatologist.
You can also join Facebook groups or online communities, particularly English-speaking ones, where members share local advice and recommendations.
Things to consider
It is important to note that there is a nationwide shortage of dermatologists in France.
In some regions, such as Creuse and Lozère, there may be no dermatologists available at all.
Even in larger cities, appointment wait times can be several months or longer.
A visit to a dermatologist typically costs more than seeing a general practitioner. On average, the consultation fee can range from €50 to €80 or more, depending on the specialist.
Be sure to inquire about the cost beforehand and check with your insurance provider to see how much of the visit will be reimbursed.
