What do France's two-hour free health check-ups include?

In France, residents who are part of the state health system can access a free two-hour health check-up designed to identify potential health issues and provide preventive advice. 

This check-up, known as an examen de prévention en santé, is available to all eligible individuals and may be useful if you have moved to France and are new to the healthcare system here. 

What does the health check-up include?

The examen de prévention en santé lasts around two-and-a-half hours and takes place at one of the 85 centres d’examens de santé or health examination centres across the country. 

The check-up covers a comprehensive range of health assessments, including:

• Blood and urine tests

• Height and weight measurements

• Eyesight and hearing tests

• Dental health 

• Electrocardiogram (ECG)

• Blood pressure measurement

• Breathing capacity test

• Memory tests

• Consultation with a dietician

The session concludes with an interview with a doctor, who will review the results and recommend any necessary follow-up tests or treatments.

Eligibility and how to book the free health check-up

This health check-up is open to all residents covered by Assurance Maladie, the state health system. 

If there is high demand, certain priority groups may be given preference, including those on low-income benefits, the unemployed, disabled individuals, people over 60, and young people starting work.

To book the free check-up, you have several options available to you. 

You can contact your Cpam (Caisse primaire d'assurance maladie) by phone on 3646 to make an appointment.

For those with an online account, you can use the 'Ma Messagerie' section on Ameli.fr to book. 

Residents of some regions, such as Île-de-France, can fill out an online form to schedule an appointment. 

You can also search for examen de prévention en santé on Ameli.fr and enter your postal code if prompted.

Information on booking should be provided in a section called Près de chez vous, if this is available in your area.

Additional free health assessments in France

Aside from the two-hour health check-up, French residents can also benefit from a free bilan prévention at key life milestones of age 25, 45, and 65. 

These health assessments focus on different aspects of physical and mental health, such as:

• At 25: Vaccinations, physical activity, addiction risks, and issues related to starting working life.

• At 45: Mental health risks, physical activity, and guidance on cancer and cardiovascular screening programs.

• At 65: Issues related to independent living, cancer screening, and mental health concerns linked to retirement.

Ask about these assessments during an appointment with a doctor or nurse. You can also check online for medical professionals in your area offering the bilan prévention or ask your local pharmacist.