Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Health
Before You Go
»Carry medications in original, clearly labelled, containers in carry-on luggage.
»Dental care in France is good; get a pre-departure check-up to minimise risk.
»No vaccinations are required for France, but the World Health Organization recommends
travellers be vaccinated against diphtheria, tetanus, measles, mumps, rubella and polio, re-
gardless of destination.
»French tap water is safe to drink, but water from fountains reading '
eau non potable
' is
not.
Availability & Cost of Healthcare
»For emergencies, dial 15 for ambulance (SAMU) or urgent house call. Or find the
nearest
hôpital
or
salles des urgence.
Doctor's offices are
cabinets médicals.
»For medical referrals and minor illnesses, pharmacists dispense advice and sell medica-
tions; look for green neon crosses.
»Doctor visits cost about €25.
»Emergency contraception is available by prescription. Condoms are (
préservatifs
) com-
monly available.
Insurance
Medical Insurance
EU citizens and those from Switzerland, Iceland, Norway and Liechtenstein are covered
for emergencies by the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), but not for non-emer-
gencies or repatriation. Every family member needs a card. In the UK, applications avail-
able from post offices or the Department of Health (
www.dh.gov.uk
). Seek care from state
providers (
conventionnés
); private healthcare is not covered. Pay directly and keep re-
ceipts for reimbursement.
Non-Europeans need to determine if your country has reciprocity with France for free
medical care. If you need health insurance, strongly consider a policy that covers worst-
case scenarios, including emergency medical evacuation. Determine in advance if your in-
