On paper, the wheelchair reform, scheduled to take effect on December 1, 2025, is a commendable initiative. It promises full coverage, a single point of contact, and administrative simplification for people with disabilities. This is excellent news, as it puts an end to the financial and administrative « obstacle course » that many have experienced. However, as professionals, our past experience encourages us to remain cautious. Managing a massive influx of requests for complex equipment, which can cost up to €15,000, is a major challenge for the administration. It is crucial that the public health insurance system has the resources and processes to ensure that these promises translate into a rapid and concrete improvement in the lives of beneficiaries.
The Challenge of Budgetary Consistency
Total coverage for wheelchairs, including sports wheelchairs, is a major social step forward. However, it raises questions about its financial sustainability and the consistency of our health policies. At the same time, other essential medical devices, such as some hearing aids or optical equipment, continue to leave a significant out-of-pocket cost for families. In a context of general budget cuts for healthcare, this reform, while exceptional, highlights the need for a broader reflection on how healthcare costs are allocated and managed. It is important to have a social policy that is both generous and economically sustainable.