Although the French health care system is public, most patients must pay their doctor up front from their own pockets. Then the amount spent is partially or fully reimbursed. Remarkably, patients are free to choose a doctor and clinic. All medical payments are made through a special policy-card of compulsory health insurance – Carte Vitale. So, for example, visit to the therapist in France costs 23 euros: this sum is paid in the terminal through Carte Vitale, after which within 5 days it is returned to the client’s account. As a rule, it is reimbursed from 70 to 100%. People with low income are reimbursed 100% of medical services. Also part of the money, which is not covered by the state, is reimbursed by the employer. If a patient goes into intensive care, the state takes full responsibility for his or her health. In November 2017, the system will change somewhat: the state and companies insuring their employees will have to pay doctors directly, advance payments will be canceled. At pharmacies, the French also pay with Carte Vitale. State coverage of the bill here ranges from 15 to 100%.

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