French Medical Interns Strike Over Controversial Fourth-Year Reform

The proposed additional year of training for general medicine interns faces criticism for lack of preparation and resources, prompting calls for its postponement.

The reform mandates a fourth year of general medicine internship, starting in November 2026, aimed at easing the transition to professional practice and addressing medical deserts.
The Isnar-IMG, one of three major intern unions, has called for a strike, arguing the reform is poorly prepared and lacks necessary resources like stage supervisors and locations.
Concerns include insufficient training sites, unclear logistical details, and fears interns may be redirected to hospitals instead of community practices, undermining the reform's goals.
The Health Minister, Yannick Neuder, has promised regulatory decrees by spring 2025 and financial incentives for stage supervisors but has resisted calls to delay the reform.
While some unions acknowledge progress in discussions with the government, Isnar-IMG insists on maintaining pressure, citing unresolved issues and risks to intern welfare.