Covid-19: free PCR tests, the French exception
The health pass system must allow Europeans to certify that they have been vaccinated against Covid-19, that they have passed a PCR test.
REUTERS - GONZALO FUENTES
Text by: RFI Follow
2 min
In France, the PCR test is free for French citizens as well as for foreigners.
A good point to attract tourists this summer.
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This is an exception in Europe, PCR tests in France are 100% covered by health insurance without advance payment, and for everyone. Everyone including foreign tourists. This political choice to make the cost bear on the community rather than on the individuals is fully assumed by the government.
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It is an element of tourist attractiveness because we want, we need, in good sanitary conditions, to remain the leading European and world tourist destination,
underlines Clément Beaune, French Secretary of State for European Affairs, asked about Europe 1.
It is an economic issue for us. And that shows the effort we are making. The European Parliament, to be precise in this ongoing discussion on the health pass, is asking that the tests become free everywhere in Europe. We can only support it because we are doing it. But I can't tell you today if Italy, Spain, Germany who all charge for the tests, will accept it and will do so in the coming days.
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To read also: France: the health pass adopted painfully at the Assembly
Health pass planned for mid-June
Agreeing on an affordable tariff at European level should not be easy.
The price of the tests today oscillate between 80 euros in Italy and 300 euros in Sweden.
The European "health pass", currently under discussion, would ensure that the traveler has tested negative for Covid-19 or is vaccinated.
It should be ready in mid-June, said the French Secretary of State for European Affairs.
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To read also: Health pass: solution to the pandemic
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