On April 2, 2025, the French National Assembly advanced a crucial regulation aimed at addressing the shortage of medical professionals in underserved areas, known as 'décerts médicaux.'

The debates surrounding this regulation have been contentious, with heated discussions indicating the significant implications for healthcare access across France.

The proposition, led by Socialist Deputy Guillaume Garot, aims to address the uneven distribution of medical professionals across the country, highlighting the urgent need for reform.

Further discussions on the broader legislative proposal, which includes changes to patient fee structures and obligations for doctors to participate in continuous care, are set to resume in early May.

In response to the ongoing issues, the bipartisan group proposed the creation of an annual 'territorial care supply indicator' based on patient care time and local healthcare specifics.

This legislation responds to a growing crisis where six million French citizens lack a primary care doctor, and eight million live in areas with inadequate medical access.

The adopted regulation mandates that both self-employed and salaried physicians must obtain approval from the regional health agency (ARS) before establishing their practices in areas with a shortage of healthcare providers.

In well-served regions, new doctors can only set up practice if an existing doctor leaves, a measure that faced initial rejection but was reinstated with significant parliamentary support.

Opposition from a coalition of 15 medical organizations argued that coercive regulations could negatively impact access to healthcare, a concern countered by supporters who noted that doctors would still have the freedom to practice in 87% of the territory.

Health Minister Yannick Neuder raised concerns that even regulated shortages could exacerbate the existing crisis, potentially leading to physician relocations abroad and decreased appeal of the medical profession.

Prime Minister François Bayrou expressed support for some form of regulation but emphasized the need for a comprehensive solution involving all stakeholders by the end of April 2025.

The Assembly voted 155 to 85 to restore a controversial article that limits the installation of new general practitioners and specialists in adequately served areas, despite government opposition.