Planning a trip to France is exciting, but preparation is essential for a serene experience. One aspect not to be overlooked is how to express your compassion first and foremost. When a friend is unwell, it’s essential to show your support and affection. A simple comforting phrase can bring a little warmth and soothing to their heart. That’s why, today, I’d like to share with you a few comforting phrases for your French-speaking friends.
The second essential step is to prepare your medical papers. In France, if you fall ill, you’ll need to see a doctor, and having your medical papers in order is the key to rapid treatment.
In this article, we’ll explain what you need to bring with you for your stay in France.
Why should you prepare your medical documents before you travel?
- Easy access to healthcare. In France, access to medical care is simple and efficient, and to take full advantage of it, it’s essential to have your medical papers. Without them, it can be complicated to obtain rapid treatment in the event of a health problem. So it’s essential to always have your documents on hand.
- Coverage of medical expenses. In France, most medical expenses can be covered by the Assurance Maladie. As a traveler, you need to apply for a European Health Insurance Card if you are a member of the European Union. This makes it easier to have your medical expenses covered in France. For non-European travelers, it’s essential to check with your bank and insurance company to make sure you’re properly covered. Only private medical insurance can cover your medical expenses.
- Understanding medical prescriptions. Having complete medical documentation is important. This allows doctors to understand your medical history and provide you with appropriate care. If you are undergoing medical treatment, make sure you have enough medication for the duration of your stay.
Once in France, if you’re ill, you’ll need to go to the doctor. A “médecin” is the man or woman who examines and treats patients, whatever their age (babies, children, adults, senior citizens) and whatever their pathology. You can go to him/ her for a sore throat, a migraine, or a sore knee. So he/ she has the necessary knowledge and can accompany patients throughout their lives.
The doctor will ask you questions to get a better idea of where the pain is. He’ll ask you questions like: « Avez-vous de la fièvre ? » (Do you have a fever?) to assess your body temperature. He’ll ask you if you’re coughing, which could indicate respiratory problems, or if you have a blocked nose, and so on.
Where you feel pain. You could tell him if you have pain in your tête (head) aux sinus (sinus), aux dents (teeth), à la bouche (mouth), à la gorge (throat), au cou (neck), au dos (back), aux reins (lower back, kidney region), à la poitrine (chest and breasts), à l’estomac (stomach), au foie (liver), aux bras (arms), aux mains (hands), aux doigts (fingers), aux articulations (joints), aux jambes (legs), aux genoux (knees), aux chevilles (ankles), aux pieds (feet), aux orteils (toes).. This information will help the doctor make an accurate diagnosis and recommend the appropriate treatment.
Do you know how to pronounce the word “MÉDECIN”?
At the end of the consultation, if necessary, the doctor will prescribe medication. To do this, he’ll give you a prescription: a sheet of paper with a list of medicines. You will then need to collect the medication from the pharmacy. It is not possible to buy medicines in supermarkets in France.
A homestay program in France can be an incredible experience, but it’s important to always put your health first. Gathering all your medical documents before you leave will ensure that you have access to quality care when you need it. The key to a worry-free trip to France lies in preparation. Prepare your medical papers and set off to discover this magnificent country with complete peace of mind.
