French Holiday & Travel

European Health Insurance card

The E111 form is no longer valid. You will need a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to receive necessary healthcare during a visit to an European Economic Country country or Switzerland.
E.U. Nationals should apply for a "European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) " from your local post office (or apply online here.... This card will enable you to be reimbursed for many medical costs and prescription charges incurred when you return. This card is not meant to replace private health insurance so you are strongly advised to take out travel insurance before you depart.

For nationals of other countries, you should apply to an insurance company to obtain cover in case of illness or accident.

Health Care and Emergencies

Energency Phone Numbers
SAMU (medical emergencies): 15
Police emergencies: 17
Fire Service emergencies: 18
European emergency line: 112
SOS Médecins (Paris – emergency doctors): +33 (0) 1 47 07 77 77 or +33 (0) 820 332 424
SOS Dentistes (Paris – emergency dentists): +33 (0) 1 43 37 51 00

First Aid, medical advice and night service rota are all available from pharmacies, recognisable by their green cross. Gendarmeries (police stations) will give you their addresses.

There is always a doctor on call, but please be aware that home visits and consultations on Sundays and public holidays are more expensive. Consultations and examinations by GPs, specialists, dentists etc, as well as emergency room facilities are provided at any hospital or health center. You can also make an appointment for surgery, or have a doctor visit you at your hotel.

For the addresses and telephone numbers of local doctors, hospitals, dentists etc., ask at the police station or dial 15 (SAMU – medical emergencies)
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Doctors are either registered with the Department of Health (fixed fees), or are in a private practice (their fees will be more expensive).

Pharmacies

There is a wide network of pharmacies in most towns.

Opening hours are usually the same as for stores (9am to 7pm or 8pm).

All pharmacies display the address of the nearest one that is open at night, on Sundays and on public holidays.

Certain medications may require a prescription, while others may be bought over the counter. The pharmacist will provide you with the necessary information, and will be able to advise you accordingly.

Vaccinations are not normally required from mainland Britain

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