French Government Unveils Plan for €1.7 Billion Health Expenditure Savings in 2025

The French government, under the leadership of Minister Catherine Vautrin, has unveiled a comprehensive plan aimed at saving €1.7 billion in health expenditures for the year 2025. This initiative arises in response to forecasts indicating that health care spending could exceed the designated budget by €1.3 billion, totaling approximately €265.9 billion overall.

To achieve these savings, the government will implement several key measures. A substantial reserve of €700 million will be mobilized for hospitals and other social care facilities, while another €500 million is expected to be saved through reductions in medication costs. Additionally, planned increases in tariffs for physiotherapists and specialists, initially set for July 2025, will now be postponed until January 2026. This delay is projected to yield €75 million in savings for each group of medical professionals.

Minister Vautrin emphasized the urgency and necessity of these measures, stating, "We are fully aware of the efforts required from everyone, but we are safeguarding the sustainability of the social model." The decision follows warnings from the health spending alert committee that pointed out significant fiscal pressures on the healthcare budget.

Moreover, the government is committed to reforming the pricing model for medical transport services, despite facing protests from taxi drivers. Vautrin reaffirmed the government's stance on the matter, insisting, "We have listened to their concerns and analyzed their proposals, but we will apply this reform."

Looking ahead, the government intends to extend its focus on health expenditure controls into 2026, ensuring continued oversight and adjustment as required to manage France's healthcare financial landscape effectively.