Lawmakers approve creation of “French Health network”

Supported by the government and supported by the National Rally, this system is intended to increase access to health services. This was widely criticized by left-wing groups, who feared its negligible impact on medical services.

The National Assembly voted on Sunday, November 9, in favor of creating a “French Health network”, a move proposed by Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu upon his arrival in Matignon. This system, which aims to improve access to health services in the region, was approved in the first reading by 138 votes to 104, despite opposition from left-wing deputies who considered it clearly insufficient.

France Santé’s network of health centers will mostly consist of existing structures, such as health centers, run by private doctors, or health centers, where salaried doctors work. In certain remote areas, pharmacies will be able to fulfill this role, “as soon as they use the device to access services such as teleconsultation”said Health Minister Stéphanie Rist during a debate on the “spending” section of the Social Security budget bill.

The text provides 130 million euros for the system, Sébastien Lecornu has set the goal of owning 2,000 France Santé homes “in the summer of 2026”and 5,000 “in 2027”. Acquisition of the France Santé label will be carried out under certain conditions, including the guaranteed presence of doctors and nurses, the absence of additional costs, opening at least five days a week… With the overall aim of providing a healthcare offer accessible to every French person. “in 48 hours 30 minutes” from his house. Structures integrated into this network will receive packages of around 50,000 euros, the minister confirmed.

The amendment was adopted by most of the government and the National Party, who were cautious but eager to validate the amendment“an additional envelope of 130 million euros”according to Matthias Renault. On the other hand, leftist groups bombarded the government’s proposal. “Since we put labels on things that already exist, we are not responding to medical deserts”criticizing the rebellious Hadrien Clouet. “You will place profitable public, non-profit and private structures in France Santé”for his part reminded Hendrik Davi, a former LFI who is now a member of an environmental group, that he was worried that the funds paid would make the situation worse. “financialization of the sector”.