Ongoing Discussions Around Osteopathy Reimbursement in France
Discussions on osteopathy reimbursement policies continue amidst uncertainty in France.
Key Points
- • Senate report proposed ending osteopathy reimbursement but was not adopted in the 2025 Social Security Financing Bill.
- • The French Mutuality reassured that stopping reimbursements for osteopathy is not being considered.
- • Reimbursement decisions for osteopathy lie with mutual insurance companies.
- • Ongoing discussions aim to include osteopathy in lower-level health plans for better access.
Recent discussions in France have raised concerns about the future of reimbursements for osteopathic treatments by mutual insurance companies. A Senate report from September 2024 suggested that coverage for osteopathy might be eliminated from the contracts of Organismes Complémentaires à l'Assurance Maladie (OCAM), prompting significant concern among practitioners and patients alike. However, this recommendation was notably absent in the 2025 Social Security Financing Bill, indicating that no immediate changes will occur regarding reimbursement policies.
The President of the French Mutuality reassured stakeholders that stopping reimbursements is currently not on the agenda. It was emphasized that the decision on whether to reimburse complementary therapies, like osteopathy, lies entirely with the mutual insurance companies. While contracts classified as 'solidarity and responsibility' might offer additional services, osteopathy is often excluded from more basic plans. Ongoing discussions are focused on advocating for osteopathy to be included in lower-tier contracts, thus enhancing access for individuals with financial constraints. Despite the stability in the current reimbursement landscape, stakeholders are closely monitoring potential policy changes.