Medical treatment and tests are partially paid for by the French government ( Caisse d’Assurance Maladie – CPAM  / AMELI ) , but the patient is responsible for the remaining amount. French health insurance ( CPAM) covers 70–100% of necessary treatments like doctor visits and hospital stays.

Most French residents and expats therefore take out health insurance, called a Mutuelle that top-up the healthcare costs covered under the French health system  :

3 reasons for having a “Mutuelle” :

1. 1. If you want 100% coverage on all medical care, bridging the 20-30% out-of-pocket gap with what CPAM covers;
   2. If you want to receive reimbursements for certain specialists and medication, for  dental, optical, and hearing care, for complementary physical therapy, or for alternative medicine;
   3. If you want full access to (often better, and more timely) private health services and other perks, such as private hospital rooms