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France’s Private Radiologists Stage Nationwide Strike Over Imaging Fee Cuts

The national health insurer says high profitability means the reductions will not threaten access to care.

Overview

  • Roughly 70% to 80% of private radiology practices are closed on November 10, with higher participation reported in several regions and lower rates around Paris.
  • Emergency imaging is being maintained, with some practitioners requisitioned by prefectures on the advice of regional health agencies.
  • The new tariff grid published in mid-October targets about €300 million in savings through 2027, which the insurer says will slow, not reverse, expected spending growth of roughly €1 billion.
  • The scale of the cuts is disputed, with the insurer citing an average 5% reduction while radiologists report around 15% on some exams, including a drop in scanner interpretation from €29 to €26.
  • The FNMR says it has filed a legal challenge and warns the measures will curb investment, lengthen waiting times, and risk closures in rural and peri‑urban areas.