Sixty senators urge PM Lecornu to delay changing thermal cure reimbursement, citing concerns over sector stability and pending scientific evaluations.
Senators urge reconsideration of thermal cure policy
Approximately sixty senators from 42 thermal departments have called on Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu to "reconsider" a proposal that would shift the reimbursement of thermal cures from public health insurance to private health insurance supplements. They argue this change could harm the thermal medicine sector, which provides treatments at specialized resorts.Lawmakers demand dialogue on thermalism
In a letter obtained by AFP, the senators—representing a range of political views—requested a meeting with the government. They emphasized the need for a transparent and respectful debate on the scientific basis of thermal cures, warning that decisions should not be made without waiting for expert conclusions.Thermal cures face potential funding shift
The government's rejected Social Security budget proposal aims to save 200 million euros by transferring the cost of reimbursing thermal cures to private health insurance. This plan is set to be reviewed in the Senate starting November 9, but it has sparked concerns among lawmakers about the future of the sector.Scientific evaluation delayed until 2027
The High Authority for Health (HAS), tasked with evaluating the effectiveness of thermal cures, has begun its work but will not complete its report until the end of 2027, according to Health Minister Stéphanie Rist. The senators are urging the government to delay any changes until this evaluation is finalized.Government defends new funding model
Health Minister Stéphanie Rist clarified that the proposal does not involve reducing reimbursements but rather redistributing the financial responsibility between public and private health insurance. She noted that private insurers can still cover the cost of these treatments for patients.
