Pharmaceutical groups have identified around a hundred molecules that are freely sold elsewhere in Europe. The key: at least 200 million euros in savings for Social Security.
Do you have to go through a doctor to get an antimigraine, antiallergy eye drops or acne treatment? No, assure the pharmaceutical laboratories specializing in first-line drugs. Their federation, Nères, is calling for the government to expand the list of drugs sold without a prescription (but reimbursed by Social Security if they are prescribed by a doctor, such as Doliprane).
The key is better access for patients to treatments for everyday ailments and savings for Social Security. « 36 % of French people consulted a general practitioner for everyday ailments during their last three medical consultationsnotes the federation. 24 % of emergency room visits are even due to similar problems. » These conditions such as colds, mild allergies or migraines already diagnosed could be treated without going to the doctor, the laboratories assure.
Between 201 and 377 million euros of savings per year
France has room for maneuver. It is among the countries where medicines are most difficult to access without a prescription. Nères has identified 99 molecules already sold without a prescription in other European countries. If patients could buy them without consulting their doctor, Social Security would save 201 to 377 million euros per year, the federation calculates. These savings come 58% from avoided medical consultations and 42% from non-reimbursement of the medicine.
Today, being able to obtain treatment without a prescription represents a saving of 3.1 billion euros per year, or “around 36% of the health insurance deficit in 2023”
Today, being able to obtain treatment without a prescription represents a saving of 3.1 billion euros per year, or « environ 36 % of the health insurance deficit in 2023 », and two hours of time per day per doctor, estimates the federation.
