Starting this Monday, January 5, 2026, many medical offices may remain silent. In an unprecedented move in scale, liberal doctors are launching a ten-day strike, coordinated by all their unions, reports franceinfo. The trigger? Several provisions in the Social Security Financing Bill (LFSS) for 2026, passed on December 16, which practitioners deem unacceptable.
They are criticizing an inadequate budget in the face of rising needs, increased scrutiny over sick leave authorizations, the government’s power to unilaterally cut certain medical fees, and upcoming plans that could restrict their ability to set up practice independently. These measures are seen as a direct threat to their professional freedom, according to franceinfo.
The upcoming strike could see widespread participation. An internal survey cited by the media reveals that 85% of union members plan to strike. All groups are united, from practicing doctors to students.
The movement is expected to intensify. Starting Monday, clinic activities will be scaled back. From Saturday, January 10, the day of a large demonstration in Paris, up to 80% of surgical theaters could be shut down, according to the Private Hospital Federation. Patients already hospitalized will continue to receive care, but aside from emergencies, new admissions may be transferred to public hospitals.
The Ministry of Health assures it is already preparing for the situation. Minister Stéphanie Rist promises to "reopen dialogue" and to start discussions on compensation, while also emphasizing that some highly controversial measures have been withdrawn, according to franceinfo. The question remains: will this be enough to defuse the crisis...
