France's prevention program has conducted nearly 690,000 assessments, but nurses face challenges in participation due to low public awareness and time constraints.
Program reaches 690,000 assessments
The French prevention assessment program, launched two years ago, has completed nearly 690,000 assessments, with around 45,000 performed each month, according to a report from Health Minister Stéphanie Rist on October 5. This progress aligns with the government’s goals for 2026, though the program has not yet been fully integrated into medical practice.Nurses underrepresented in assessments
Despite being promoted as a chance for recognition, particularly for liberal nurses (IDEL), nurses only account for 4% of the professionals conducting these assessments, even though they make up 43.1% of registered performers. General practitioners and pharmacists are more active, with the latter leading at 58% of all assessments.Challenges in implementation
John Pinte, president of the National Union of Liberal Nurses (Sniil), said low patient demand and time constraints are major barriers. The 35- to 45-minute interviews are hard to fit into busy schedules, prompting some nurses to dedicate specific days to the task. However, the lack of public awareness limits the program's impact.Efforts to raise awareness
Regional Unions of Health Professionals (URPS), such as that of Occitanie, are working to inform the public about the assessments and the role of nurses. They also provide guides for professionals. The assessments are fully covered by the Health Insurance, with liberal nurses in France earning 30 euros per assessment, or 31.50 euros overseas, plus travel costs if done at the patient’s home.Program structure and goals
Launched in 2024, "My Prevention Assessment" involves structured consultations between patients and authorized professionals at four key life stages: 18-25, 45-50, 60-65, and 70-75 years. These sessions cover topics like vaccination, chronic disease prevention, and lifestyle changes, leading to a personalized prevention plan that sets goals and identifies resources for the patient.