France to FINE patients who miss GP appointments £4.30 in bid to free up millions of slots
Description
The move, to free up to 20 million slots, will be introduced from January 1
READ MORE: The ultimate guide to England's 6,000 GP practices
France has vowed to fine patients who miss doctors' appointments in an attempt to free up millions of slots.
Anyone who fails to attend their consultation will get a €5 (£4.30) penalty under the planned move.
France's Prime Minister Gabriel Attal said the policy would support the ailing health service as it struggles to cope with the rising demands of an ageing population.
But health experts slammed the move warning it 'won't work' and described it as 'an attempt to blame' patients.
Similar plans have been mooted in the UK amid pleas from doctors themselves
If they fail to turn up without giving at least 24 hours' notice, doctors would legally be able to fine them.
Patients with a valid reason for missing their appointment would still be exempt.
Officials hope the fines will kick in from January. The change to the law will be put before French parliament within the coming months.
Parts of France have been labelled 'medical deserts' because they lack doctors and medical facilities, forcing residents to travel great distances for care.
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