Yannick Monnet, the Communist lawmaker who presented the bill, highlighted that patients had been facing an average extra cost of €1,400, particularly affecting women with lower incomes.

Full coverage is provided for breast prosthesis renewals, medical tattoos for the areola and nipple, and specialized bras, addressing the high out-of-pocket costs faced by patients.

The law will negotiate maximum fee levels in the medical convention between health insurance and physicians, marking a significant step towards reducing out-of-pocket expenses.

On January 28, 2025, French lawmakers unanimously approved a law aimed at improving healthcare coverage for breast cancer patients, addressing the often high out-of-pocket expenses that average around €1,400.

The law includes regulations on doctor fees for breast reconstruction surgeries, which often deter 15% of women from undergoing necessary procedures due to financial burdens.

Minister of Health Yannick Neuder expressed government support for the law, emphasizing its significance for the approximately 700,000 women living with breast cancer and the commitment to enhance cancer prevention through systematic screenings.

A specific fund will be established to cover the costs of medically prescribed products that are currently not reimbursed, such as creams for dryness and nail polish to prevent nail loss due to treatment.

Emotional testimonies during the legislative debates included that of deputy Marine Hamelet, who shared her personal experience with breast cancer and the financial challenges faced by many women.

Breast cancer remains the most common and deadliest cancer among women, with the World Health Organization reporting 670,000 deaths globally in 2022, underscoring the urgent need for improved care and financial support.

Neuder also announced plans to expand and intensify screening campaigns, particularly targeting at-risk populations and lowering the age threshold for earlier detection of treatable cancers.

Additionally, the law allocates funding for psychological care, nutrition sessions, and physical activity programs for patients undergoing treatment, aiming to improve their overall well-being.

Parliament Speaker Yaël Braun-Pivet, a breast cancer survivor, emphasized the importance of this legislation and encouraged women to participate in regular screenings.