Health: an average out-of-pocket cost of 150 euros per year, but more than 900 euros for 10% of the population

In terms of health, the French bear an average annual out-of-pocket cost of 150 euros, mainly linked to medical equipment (optical, dental, hearing aids) and excess fees, but this amount reaches or exceeds 910 euros for 10% of the population, according to data from the Drees published Thursday. This study by the statistical services of social ministries evaluates expenses partially covered by Health Insurance, therefore excluding certain types of care (psychologists, unconventional practices, etc.) and non-prescribed medications.

Health expenditure thus amounts to 3,150 euros per inhabitant in 2023, 81% covered by Health Insurance, and 15% by complementary insurance, for a remaining charge of 150 euros per person. Of this sum, 120 euros are linked to “equipment whose price exceeds the rates set by Social Security” and excess fees for health professionals. Around 20 euros comes from deductibles and fixed contributions. But the inequalities are significant: the remaining cost represents 40 euros on average for 80% of the population, 580 euros for 20% of French people and even 910 euros for the 10% most exposed, specifies the study.

The amount increases as you age

Overall the amount increases with age: it is 80 euros between 20 and 39 years old, but reaches 290 euros for those aged 70 and over who have a much higher consumption of care and are often covered by individual supplementary health contracts, generally less covering than collective contracts. An insured with one of the least covering contracts has an out-of-pocket liability three times higher, on average, than that of an insured with one of the most covering contracts, underlines the study. People with long-term illnesses (ALD, chronic illnesses) are reimbursed 100% by Social Security for care related to their illness, excluding excess fees. However, they remain exposed to overruns and high equipment prices, have health expenses on average seven times higher and therefore pay 240 euros annually.

The overall individual cost of health, including supplementary contributions, compulsory deductions financing health insurance and out-of-pocket costs, represents on average 14% of household income. The effort rate is slightly progressive: it represents an increasing fraction of income as the standard of living rises. But the most extreme effort rates (top 1%) are paid mainly by low-income households. In addition, the addition of supplementary contributions and out-of-pocket payments represents 4 to 5% of the income of the poorest households, compared to 2% for the wealthiest.