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Over 225,000 doctors in France, almost 5 billion euros worth of medical
visits reimbursed in 2002 (2 billion euros worth of dentists'
fees)... While these figures reflect the dynamism of the French health
system, other statistics reveal the progress that needs to be made
to broaden the range of payment options for patients. While more than
two thirds of the French would like to be able to pay for medical
expenses using their bankcard, only 13% of doctors and 23% of dentists
are equipped to provide this service.
For years, banks have been striving to improve awareness of this expectation
among the medical professions. Manufacturers have designed specific
electronic terminals: fixed or portable (for home visits), they can
process the remote transmission of health certificates in conjunction
with the Vitale
card (French Social Security card accepted by 150 000
doctors) and payment by CB bankcard. This method of payment provides
health professionals with immediate and guaranteed payment; for patients,
it is easy and payment can be deferred. It is because of these advantages
that there are a growing number of these card readers installed in
doctors' surgeries. The rate of use is higher among specialists than
among their GP colleagues and freelance nurses. Overall, the number
of health professionals accepting bankcard payment is increasing.
And that's good news for patients! |
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