On Tuesday, September 22, the French government introduced new support measures for healthcare professionals most affected by the recent rise in fuel prices. During a press conference, Health Minister Stéphanie Rist announced that more than 25,000 liberal nurses—those who work independently and often travel long distances—will receive an 80 euro bonus. This one-time payment, set to be available by the end of 2026, does not require any specific financial conditions. The initiative is part of a broader effort titled "Territories & Rural Areas," aimed at supporting healthcare workers in remote and rural regions. Nurses will also have the option to delay paying their Urssaf contributions—taxes and social security payments—without facing penalties. In addition, the government is collaborating with the Health Insurance Agency to inform nurses about long-distance driver assistance programs. These programs now have higher income thresholds, allowing more professionals to qualify. The new income limits are set at 2,035 euros net per month for a single person and 6,104 euros net for a couple with two children, before income tax is withheld, as stated by Energy Minister Maud Brégeon. The Convergence Infirmière, a union representing liberal nurses, has criticized the government's response, calling the 80 euro bonus more of a "charity" than meaningful assistance. The union argues that the measure only benefits a minority of nurses, with three out of every four liberal nurses receiving nothing. It also points out that the total cost of the bonus is only 2 million euros annually, far below the 300 million euros requested each year for an increase in per diem allowances. The union highlights that urban nurses, who often make many short trips in heavy traffic, are largely overlooked, as they cannot charge for travel expenses. While the government's aid for nurses has been announced, doctors who make home visits are not included in the program. This has raised concerns about the future of a service deemed essential for access to care, especially as rising fuel costs continue to impact the affordability of travel. Organizations such as SOS Médecins and MG France have warned that the increasing cost of fuel could threaten the sustainability of home visits, which are crucial for patients who cannot easily travel to medical facilities.