Best in the World?
The best in the World? The French think so! The average Frenchman is very happy with "his" health service, and doesn't begrudge the cost. Certainly, waiting times are short, if they exist, and you can usually see a GP on the same day.
Once you are registered into the health system, you will receive a green credit card sized piece of plastic with a microchip. This is your Carte Vitale and should accompany you on every trip to hospital, to the doctor, dentist or specialist, and to the pharmacy. In fact, it is best to have it with you at all times. It gives an indication of your entitlement to benefit from the system;without it you may have to pay up front and claim back the money later.
The French system pays between 35% and 80% of the cost of treatment and medication (the amount varies according to the treatment/medication). Note that this percentage is based on the government approved base cost for the treatment - not the actual cost. Most people have a top-up insurance policy (Mutuelle) to cover the difference. The cost depends on the level of cover you choose as well as your age.
Recent changes - Autumn 2007.
You may have read that health cover for non working expatriates living in France has been affected by the implementation of european directives into French law. Who is affected ? In brief, if you are under statutory retirement age (60 for women, 65 for men) and are not paying contributions into the French system (working at least 60 hrs per month) you will cease to be covered. Take advice ! New arrivals in France will need to register at the mairie within 3mths of arriving, and provide evidence that they have medical coverage from either an E106, E121 or a private healthcare policy as well as evidence of sufficient financial resources to live on after which you will then be given a Certificate of residence.