Abolition of state medical aid (AME): what consequences for undocumented immigrants?
The Senate recently adopted the abolition of state medical aid (AME), a measure which provided for full coverage of medical and hospital costs for illegal foreigners present in France for at least three months. This decision, introduced by the senatorial right, was supported by the government, although it clarified that this reform “has nothing to do” in the immigration bill.
The new measure, called “emergency medical aid”, aims to refocus the care of undocumented immigrants on serious illnesses, acute pain, prophylaxis, pregnancy-related care, vaccinations and medical examinations. preventive. By reducing the basket of care currently granted to nearly 400,000 beneficiaries, this reform arouses strong reactions among the senatorial left who consider it an attack on the rights of the most fragile people in our society.
Supporters of the abolition of the AME cite the risk of a “drawn out” and the high cost of this aid, estimated at around 1.2 billion euros. However, the Minister for Health Professions, Agnès Firmin Le Bodo, brushed aside these arguments by declaring that the AME is not a factor of attractiveness for candidates for immigration to France. It also emphasizes that preventive treatment of minor illnesses makes it possible to avoid their worsening and to preserve public health as a whole.
This decision by the Senate nevertheless arouses great controversy and raises fears of serious consequences for undocumented immigrants who will no longer be able to benefit from complete care for their medical needs. Indeed, many civil society actors, associations and health professionals are concerned about the potential impact on the health of undocumented immigrants, but also on public health as a whole.
It is therefore essential to continue the debate around this measure and to assess its consequences, both on a social and health level. Alternative solutions must be considered in order to guarantee access to care for all, regardless of their administrative status.
In conclusion, the abolition of the AME represents a step backwards in the protection of the health rights of undocumented immigrants. It is essential to engage in constructive dialogue to find sustainable and equitable solutions that guarantee access to care for all, regardless of their administrative situation.