This chart represents the density per 100,000 inhabitants of doctors in France in 2023*, by department. This statistic includes all general practitioners and specialists. Paris had the highest density of doctors, with doctors. Conversely, Mayotte had the fewest doctors per inhabitant, with only doctors per 100,000 in 2023.
Unequal medical density across French territory:
Among the health professionals, nurses are the most numerous in liberal professions. However, this profession is under significant strain with a number of nurses that has been continuously decreasing since 2021. General practitioners are more numerous compared to other specialties. Nevertheless, their disparity is striking across French territory. The department of Savoie has general practitioners per 100,000 inhabitants, whereas Ain has only doctors for the same ratio. Furthermore, only percent of general practitioners offer care without extra fees in areas considered medical deserts. In 2023, million French people resided in a medical desert. This situation causes difficulties in accessing care, forcing some to forgo medical treatments. More than half of French people report having already given up on healthcare due to delays in obtaining an appointment.
The growing popularity of alternative medicines in France:
Alternative medicines in France are favored by the shortage of doctors and difficulties in accessing care. About one in five French people prefer these alternative practices to conventional medicine. Among non-conventional care practices are osteopathy, homeopathy, acupuncture, hypnosis, and lithotherapy. In 2023, these alternative therapies enjoyed a certain reputation among the French, as percent declared having a positive image of alternatives to conventional medicine.
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