On Wednesday evening, May 7, 2025, the French National Assembly took a significant step in addressing the ongoing issue of medical deserts by approving a transpartisan bill aimed at regulating the installation of doctors across the country. The bill, which seeks to ensure a more equitable distribution of healthcare professionals, garnered a decisive vote of 99 in favor and only 9 against, despite strong opposition from the government and many within the medical community.
This legislation, championed by Socialist Deputy Guillaume Garot and supported by a coalition of over 250 deputies from various political backgrounds, has been in the works for several years. Garot, who has been advocating for this cause since 2022, stated, "When medical deserts advance, the Republic recedes." He expressed hope that this new regulation would help restore a sense of equity in healthcare access, asserting that "our health cannot depend on our postal code." The bill's approval marks a critical moment in the fight against healthcare inequalities in France.
The proposed regulation stipulates that before doctors can establish their practice, they must seek approval from the Regional Health Agency. In areas identified as lacking healthcare providers, the installation will be granted by default. However, in regions where medical needs are met, new practitioners will only be allowed to set up practice if they are replacing a departing doctor in the same specialty. Proponents of the bill argue that this regulation would only affect approximately 13% of the territory, focusing on regions most in need of medical support.
Despite the bill's passage, it has ignited a fierce backlash from many healthcare professionals, particularly young doctors and medical interns. A significant number of these professionals have voiced their concerns through protests and strikes, arguing that such regulations could worsen the already dire shortage of doctors and diminish the attractiveness of the profession. The syndicate representing young doctors stated, "It is not the freedom of installation that jeopardizes access to care but the structural shortage of physicians and the lack of attractiveness in the liberal sector."
Prime Minister François Bayrou has expressed his preference for a less coercive approach, advocating for a system that would utilize temporary assignments for healthcare professionals rather than mandatory regulations. He emphasized the need for alternative solutions that do not impose restrictions on where doctors can practice. Bayrou's government has also proposed measures aimed at incentivizing healthcare providers to work in under-served areas, including training more caregivers and potentially abolishing the numerus clausus, which limits the number of medical students.
As the bill moves to the Senate, where it is expected to face more robust opposition, Deputy Garot is urging senators to consider the urgent need for reform. He remarked, "Senators, like us, are confronted with the difficulties and distress of patients who lack access to a doctor and cannot secure an appointment with a specialist for months. We must find solutions, and the one we propose is reasonable." The Senate will begin reviewing its own proposal addressing doctor shortages on May 12, 2025, which may influence the ongoing discussion surrounding this legislation.
In the wake of the Assembly's decision, over 1,500 local officials have signed a petition in support of the bill, demonstrating a significant level of grassroots support for this initiative. Local officials, including 83 from Mayenne, have rallied behind the proposal, highlighting the widespread recognition of the healthcare crisis affecting many communities.
While the bill aims to tackle the pressing issue of medical deserts, it remains contentious within the medical community. Many doctors have expressed their concerns that the proposed regulations may not adequately address the root causes of the healthcare shortage. Instead, they argue for more comprehensive strategies that enhance the overall appeal of the medical profession and address the systemic issues contributing to the current crisis.
The discussions surrounding this legislation reflect a broader national concern regarding healthcare access and equity. With millions of French citizens lacking a regular doctor, the urgency for effective policy solutions has never been more pronounced. As the Senate prepares to deliberate on this matter, the outcome will undoubtedly shape the future of healthcare in France.
In conclusion, the approval of the transpartisan bill to regulate the installation of doctors represents a pivotal moment in the ongoing battle against medical deserts. As the legislation advances to the Senate, the voices of both supporters and opponents will play a crucial role in shaping the final outcome. The stakes are high, as the health and well-being of countless citizens hang in the balance.
