Paris, France – General practitioners and private clinics across France began a widespread, ten-day nationwide strike on Monday. The strike is in protest against the proposed 2026 social security budget. Medical unions anticipate a “massive” response, which could lead to the closure of thousands of clinics and the cancellation of hundreds of scheduled surgeries.
Figures reflecting the size of the packing
The CSMF union announced that 85% of its members have confirmed their intention to participate in the strike. In the Île-de-France region alone, more than 14,500 doctors have registered to strike. The mobilization is scheduled to culminate in a major demonstration in Paris on January 10.
Reasons for the clash: an “unfair” budget and parliamentary restrictions
The striking doctors denounced what they described as “policies that attack doctors.” Their demands included addressing the budget deficit and the inadequacy of social security allocations to cope with inflation and increasing healthcare needs.
The increased scrutiny of sick leave prescriptions was rejected, as was the granting of the authority to arbitrarily reduce fees for procedures. There are also concerns about parliamentary legislation that could impose restrictions on where the profession can be practiced.
Obstetricians and gynecologists (Syngof) also complain that some reimbursement rates have not changed since the 1990s.
Government response: “Confiscation” is an option on the table
In an interview with the newspaper “La République du Centre,” Health Minister Stéphanie Rest confirmed that the government would not allow citizens to be put at risk. She added that continuity of care plans had been activated in collaboration with regional health agencies.
The minister hinted at resorting to “legal confiscation” (Réquisition) of doctors and facilities if necessary to ensure treatment.
The minister also justified the strict measures by citing a “huge increase in fee overruns” that cause citizens to forgo treatment for financial reasons.
Field repercussions and political future
The strike is expected to double the pressure on public hospitals already overwhelmed by the peak of winter epidemics. All emergency cases and maternity surgeries will be diverted to them.
This crisis comes at a sensitive time for Minister Rist. She has announced that she will resign from the government if she loses the partial parliamentary election in the Loiret constituency scheduled for January 18. This adds a sharp political dimension to how she is handling this contentious issue.
