Ah, Paris! City of lights, romance, and… the occasional travel bug. Whether it’s a sudden cold or something more serious, falling ill in a foreign country is no one’s dream. Fear not — this guide has all you need to survive getting sick in Paris!
We’ve compiled the ultimate survival guide to managing your health during your Parisian holiday. From navigating the French healthcare system to finding local pharmacies and multi-lingual doctors, this guide has all you need to turn a travel health bug into a manageable experience.
Understanding The Healthcare System In Paris
France’s healthcare system is consistently ranked among the best in the world, but as a traveler, you’ll likely use private care. Clinics and hospitals will require payment upfront unless you have EU coverage or private travel insurance. Save your receipts for insurance reimbursement later. Many doctors accept credit cards, but check in advance.
- Public Healthcare (Assurance Maladie): Paris’s public healthcare system is world-class but can be busy, especially in central areas. Emergency care at public hospitals is often affordable for travelers, but wait times may be lengthy.
- Private Healthcare: Paris offers many private clinics and hospitals catering to tourists, with English-speaking staff, faster service, and shorter queues.
Our Expert Tip: Save time by downloading the Air Doctor app. With access to over 20,000 multilingual doctors globally, including specialists, and 24/7 multilingual support, it’s a favorite among expats and travelers alike.
Emergency Numbers And Accessing Services
It’s a good idea to save key emergency numbers before traveling. In Paris:
- Dial 112 for general emergencies or 15 for medical help.
- Paris ambulances are quick and well-equipped, particularly in central areas.
Our Expert Tip: Multi-lingual operators are available if you dial 112, and apps like Google Translate can help you navigate language barriers.
Language Barriers & Communicating Your Needs In Paris
While many private clinics in Paris cater to English speakers, public facilities might not.
- Use Air Doctor to find English-speaking doctors.
- Here are some key phrases:
- “I feel sick.” – Je me sens mal.
- “I need a doctor.” – J’ai besoin d’un médecin.
Our Expert Tip: Carry an offline translation app or pocket phrasebook in case you find yourself in clinics with limited Wi-Fi.
Accessing Pharmacies
Pharmacies in Paris are marked by green neon crosses and offer great advice for minor health issues.
Most operate:
- 9 AM to 12 PM
- 2 PM to 7 PM
- Look for Pharmacie de la Place de la République if you need after-hours assistance.
Our Expert Tip: Take some time to memorise a few pharmacies around Paris so you can find them easily.
Scripts: What You Need To Know
Here’s what you should know about scripts in Paris.
- French pharmacists are allowed to provide antibiotics for some conditions without a doctor’s visit, but you’ll have to go through some tests.
- For a prescription, Air Doctor connects you to local doctors for consultations and valid prescriptions.
Our Expert Tip: Keep a copy of your prescriptions, and learn the English and French names for medications, as brand names may differ.
You can also take a look at our guide on prescriptions while traveling, and our guide to filling prescriptions abroad if you need more info.
How To Avoid Getting Sick In Paris
While you can’t completely avoid getting sick, you can definitely minimize the chances. Here’s how.
- Stay Hydrated: Tap water is safe, and public fountains (like those at Jardin des Tuileries) offer free drinking water.
- Eat Smart: Opt for busy bistros serving fresh food and avoid undercooked options at touristy stalls.
- Prepare for Weather: Heatwaves in Europe aren’t uncommon in summer — stay indoors during peak sun and wear sunscreen.
Our Expert Tip: Stock up on fresh snacks at Marché Bastille for healthy, local produce.
Special Considerations For Pregnant Travelers & Those With Pre-Existing Conditions
Pregnant? Or have a pre-existing condition? Here are a few extra things to consider to ensure a safe and healthy trip.
- Pregnant travelers can research Parisian clinics offering prenatal care, like The American Hospital of Paris.
- Bring extra medication for chronic conditions and pack it in hand luggage.
- Confirm airline policies for medical supplies.
Our Expert Tip: Keep emergency contacts in French and English for quick reference.
Apps To Help You Find Medical Services In Paris
Here are a couple of apps to help you find medical services if you’re in Paris.
- Air Doctor: Connects you with multilingual doctors for clinic, home, or virtual consultations.
- Doctolib: Used a lot by locals to book medical appointments across Paris.
Our Expert Tip: Download apps ahead of time to avoid any possible technical hiccups.
What To Do If You Have Travel Insurance
If you’ve got travel insurance, here’s what you can do if you get sick in Paris.
- Check if your insurer has partnered clinics in Paris.
- Keep all medical receipts and documents for claims.
- Notify your provider early to assist with care arrangements.
Our Expert Tip: Ensure your plan includes private care coverage, as private clinics offer faster service.
You can also take a look at our blog on finding a doctor that’s covered by your travel insurance while abroad if you need more help!
Embassies, Clinics, & Local Resources
Embassies in Paris can help with medical referrals and contacting loved ones in emergencies. Here’s what you should know.
- Visit clinics like American Hospital of Paris, known for English-speaking care.
- The British Embassy Paris and US Embassy Paris are great resources for travelers.
Our Expert Tip: Save your embassy’s address and number to your phone before you travel.
What to Do If You Get Sick in Paris
Getting sick in Paris can be stressful. But it doesn’t have to be! Here’s a quick summary of everything above:
- Start at a Pharmacy (Pharmacie): Pharmacists can recommend remedies for mild symptoms, and prescribe antibiotics if needed.
- See a Doctor: Use Air Doctor to book consultations or visit private clinics for quicker service than public clinics.
- Know the Numbers: Dial 15 for emergencies or 112 for multi-lingual general help.
- Contact Your Travel Insurance: Your insurer can guide you to local clinics or hospitals.
- Visit the Embassy if Needed: For severe issues, embassies offer critical assistance.
With these tips, you’ll be well-prepared to handle any health hiccups in Paris, leaving you free to enjoy the city’s charms – stress-free!
About the Air Doctor App
With the Air Doctor app in your pocket, you can access medical advice, get prescriptions, and receive expert medical guidance while you’re in Rome (and anywhere else you travel).
Air Doctor offers a wide range of benefits, including:
- A global network of over 20,000 multi-lingual doctors and specialists
- Choice of clinic, at-home (hotel), and video consultations
- Active in 78 countries
- Cross-border prescription services
- Video consults and valid, local scripts in up to 21 languages & 91 countries
- 24/7 multi-lingual support
- Transparent pricing and reviews
- Most common medical specialties, including pediatricians
If you’re looking for reliable, accessible, and global medical assistance, Air Doctor is the perfect choice for you. Download the app before your next trip to ensure peace of mind and access to quality healthcare, wherever your travels take you.
