Why your médecin traitant matters so much for reimbursements
The médecin traitant (GP) is the cornerstone of France's coordinated healthcare system. Without one declared, or if you see a specialist without their referral, your reimbursements are automatically reduced: 45% instead of 70% for a GP consultation, and even less favourable rates for some specialists. Over a year, this difference can amount to several hundred euros.
The change procedure: simpler than you think
To change your médecin traitant, simply visit your new doctor and ask them to register you as a patient. They sign a Cerfa form with you (the médecin traitant declaration), then send it directly to CPAM via your carte Vitale or by post. You can change your médecin traitant at any time, for any reason, with no delay and at no cost.
How long before the change takes effect?
Generally, the change is processed within 48 to 72 hours of your doctor submitting the form. You can check your declared médecin traitant's name in your personal account on ameli.fr. If you're seeing a specialist the day after the change, wait for confirmation on ameli.fr before booking.
You can't find a médecin traitant who'll take you on
This is a real problem in many areas. If you don't have a médecin traitant, notify your CPAM in writing — this letter documents your situation and protects you in case of a reimbursement check. Since 2023, CPAM can direct you to a doctor or medical centre in your area.
Specialists with direct access
Certain specialists can be consulted directly, without going through a médecin traitant and without losing reimbursement: ophthalmologists, gynaecologists, psychiatrists (for under-26s), and dentists. For all other specialists, a GP referral is needed for normal reimbursement.