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In 1997, a reputable consumer publication issued a list of hospitals delivering low-quality, even dangerous care. Even before this consumer awareness, there was a growing recognition that one aspect of quality problems, particularly with regard to chronic diseases and older persons, is the lack of coordination and case management services for patients. These problems are exacerbated by the anarchic character of the French health system—what might be called the darker side of health care. The $55 000 average net annual income of French physicians—salaried hospital-based doctors as well as GPs and specialists in private practice—is barely one third that of their US counterparts ($194 000).

When patients become very ill in France their health insurance coverage improves. For example, although coinsurance and direct payment is symbolically an important part of their system; patients are exempted from both when (1) expenditures exceed approximately $100, (2) hospital stays exceed 30 days, (3) patients suffer from serious, debilitating, or chronic illness, or (4) patient income is below a minimum ceiling, thereby qualifying them for free supplementary coverage.

Considered as one of the best Health Care Systems in Europe Physicians in private practice are paid directly by patients on the basis of a national fee schedule. Patients are then reimbursed by their local health insurance funds. Proprietary hospitals are reimbursed on a negotiated per diem basis and are paid on the basis of annual global budgets negotiated every year between hospitals, regional agencies, and the Ministry of Health. As for prescription drugs, unit prices allowable for reimbursement by a commission that includes representatives from the Ministries of Health, Finance, and Industry.

Coverage Outside Canada Many health services outside Canada cost much more than coverage by your Provincial Plan. You are responsible for any difference in cost. Some health services are not insured by the ministry. You will have to pay the full costs for these services. An accident can happen to anyone, even during a very short business or recreational trip. Extra insurance should be purchased before you leave your Province.