Healthcare focus in PACA region

François de Canson, president of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur (PACA) region, announced several healthcare-related initiatives during his first plenary session on October 23. These include supporting future healthcare professionals, assisting health centers, and improving cancer prevention efforts across the region.

Healthcare sector's economic importance

The health and social action sector is the largest employer in PACA, with nearly 285,000 jobs expected by 2026. This represents 18% of the region's total workforce, highlighting the importance of training and access to healthcare services in the region's future.

Funding for training and education

The region is allocating 19.44 million euros for health and social training. This includes specific amounts for paramedical and midwifery training, training for the unemployed, and social work. Additional funding will be used to modernize training facilities at Aix-Marseille University and the Assistance publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille.

Support for health centers

To address medical deserts, the region plans to support 12 health centers, including two in Marseille. These centers will receive funding for medical and IT equipment, as well as support for construction and renovation of their facilities, with the region covering up to 30% of the cost of works and 50% of equipment costs.

Cancer prevention and screening efforts

The region is also allocating more than one million euros for 20 new operations under its Cancer Plan. This includes funding for prevention, screening, patient support, and medical equipment. The Mammobile, a mobile unit for breast cancer screening, will continue its itinerant screenings to make healthcare more accessible to residents.