Dijon : physical therapists angry and planning a protest this Thursday in front of the health insurance to express their frustration

In a context where the rise of social tensions affects several sectors, the physiotherapists of Dijon are preparing to make their voices heard. A demonstration scheduled this Thursday in front of the Primary Health Insurance Fund (CPAM) serves as a warning about the concerning situation of this profession. This protest movement, initiated after a national demonstration in Paris at the beginning of July, aims to denounce the delayed implementation of the promised tariff revaluations, the stagnation of working conditions, and a general feeling of contempt towards healthcare professionals. The mobilization brings together several local and national unions, including the French Federation of Rehabilitation Physiotherapists (FFMKR), the National Union of Rehabilitation Physiotherapists (SNMKR), and Alizé, supported by a growing community within the physiotherapy sector.

If physiotherapists are expressing this frustration, it is partly because they face a persistent lack of recognition—financial and regulatory—that reflects their daily efforts and dedication. The announced tariff increases for 2024-2026, initially promised in an amendment signed at the end of last year, are struggling to be effectively implemented in 2025. This delay weighs heavily on the quality of life and economic viability of clinics, especially in an already fragile medical desert. The growing anger and this action aim to prompt the Health Insurance and health authorities to take concrete steps and effective measures to safeguard public health and professionals’ well-being.

In Dijon, where the physiotherapy community includes around 1,168 practitioners, the protest is diverse, gathering actors with varied profiles but all impacted by these constraints. The initiative planned on Boulevard de Champagne, in front of the CPAM, is presented as a strong symbolic statement, where worn-out equipment and tired work supports will be exhibited to testify to the gradual deterioration of working conditions. This demonstration is a warning sign reflecting a broader issue: an insufficiently valued reform and a healthcare system seeking balance between budget oversight and support for its essential pillars.

The key issues of the physiotherapists’ demonstration in Dijon facing the Health Insurance

The demonstration planned in Dijon represents a key point in the fight led by physiotherapists for proper recognition of their profession. For several years, various demands have structured this movement, sometimes confused with those of other self-employed healthcare sectors, but which nonetheless have their own specificities. Understanding these issues allows for a more precise grasp of the frustrations and expectations expressed by these professionals.

A context of blocked tariff revaluation

At the end of 2023, an amendment to the general nomenclature of professional acts aimed to guarantee a tariff revaluation over three years by the National Health Insurance Fund (CNAM). This commitment provided for a cumulative increase of 4.5% in physiotherapy act tariffs between 2024 and 2026, conditioned among other things on an agreement on regulation of installations in underserved areas. However, despite a start in 2024 with an effective increase of 1.5%, the continuation of this plan was officially suspended in 2025, with a postponement to January 1, 2026, citing “lack of budget resources.”

This suspension reflects a gap between government announcements and the financial reality faced by these professionals. This breach is denounced by unions, which criticize the use of a law clause to justify this postponement while physiotherapists have respected their commitments, particularly regarding installation and practice in less equipped areas. The non-implementation of these tariff increases aggravates a loss of purchasing power pointed out for years, significantly impacting the economic dynamics and the capacity to invest in suitable equipment and premises.

Pressure on installation and professional organization

An important issue of this reform is the regulation of physiotherapists’ installations. By renouncing part of their freedom to establish in certain areas, these professionals had agreed to contribute to a more equitable distribution of care across France, especially in underserved regions. However, this concession requires a financial commitment from the State, through CNAM, which has not yet fully materialized. The weak incentives for setting up in strained zones compromise the quality and distribution of care, which is a major risk for access to health services in these areas.

Physiotherapists criticize the low regard for their contribution, recalling that sacrificing their freedom to establish was a significant effort contributing to overall well-being and a more balanced health system. The absence of a clear contractual framework and suitable tools also complicates the management of clinics as well as administrative and financial follow-up—constraints that weigh on an already demanding profession often at the heart of daily care.

The broader context of healthcare professionals in the Dijon region

Dijon is among the regions where the difficulties faced by healthcare professionals are particularly acute. In Côte-d’Or, about 1,168 physiotherapists practice, often in private practice, but unionization remains low, which does not limit the volume of demands or the solidarity shown in these collective movements. The frustration is compounded by an alarming inflationary context, rising professional expenses, and uncertain economic prospects.

The profession also suffers from a declining attractiveness, leading to a gradual desertification in certain areas, increasing territorial inequalities in access to care. This situation has led several unions to call for mobilization, advocating for increased consideration and effective measures to ensure the continued provision of quality and accessible care.

• 📌 Rising costs and heavy taxation
• 📌 Discrepancy between promised and actual revaluations
• 📌 Lack of incentives for rural practice
• 📌 Absence of a dynamic contractual framework
• 📌 Declining attractiveness and progressive desertification

Year	Revaluation commitment (%)	Effective revaluation (%)	Comments
2024	1.5%	1.5%	Initial compliance with signed amendment
2025	1.5%	0%	Postponed to January 1, 2026, due to budgetary reasons
2026	1.5%	To be confirmed	Uncertain actual application

A social movement at the heart of an essential profession for health and well-being

Physiotherapy, an essential profession within the French healthcare landscape, plays a major role in maintaining public health and patients’ well-being. These practitioners provide not only rehabilitation and recovery care but also actively participate in prevention and long-term management of chronic conditions and functional disorders. However, this vital mission is now challenged by working and compensation conditions perceived as degraded.

A fundamental role in the care chain

The physiotherapist intervenes in various cases: musculoskeletal disorders, trauma, neurological conditions, chronic pain… Their rehabilitation can significantly improve patients’ quality of life, promote quick autonomy resumption, and prevent complications. Their contribution is thus central to the healthcare system, but recognition does not always align with this reality.

In recent years, evolving practices and increasing demand have amplified responsibilities and workload, without corresponding adjustments in working conditions. Physiotherapists suffer from a marked gap between the evolution of their profession, their enhanced skills, and the legal or financial framework in which they operate.

The consequences of lasting dissatisfaction on care quality

Disengagement, discouragement, and growing precariousness regarding working conditions have direct repercussions on the sustainability of the care provided. Material wear is also symbolic, as demonstrated by the demonstration where worn equipment—canes, walkers, gowns—will be exhibited in front of the CPAM to illustrate a declining work environment.

Physiotherapists warn of a risk of decreasing practice numbers, which could intensify medical deserts, reduce proximity of care, and harm the well-being of local populations. Ensuring access to quality physiotherapy thus appears as a major issue to be defended, beyond financial matters.

• 💡 Increase in chronic pathologies related to demographic aging
• 💡 Growth of innovative techniques but limited without investment
• 💡 Risk of practitioners’ scarcity in rural areas
• 💡 Pressure on quality and continuity of care
• 💡 Strong involvement in local public health initiatives

Factor	Impact on the profession	Consequences for the population
Population aging	Increased demand for rehabilitation	Greater need for quality and accessible care
Equipment renewal deficit	Technical constraints in care delivery	Reduced comfort and effectiveness of treatments
Economic pressure	Less resources for training and investments	Risk of service degradation

Unions in Dijon and their central role in mobilizing healthcare professionals

The French Federation of Rehabilitation Physiotherapists (FFMKR), the National Union of Rehabilitation Physiotherapists (SNMKR), and Alizé are at the heart of this mobilization. Their coordination helps structure the movement and carry a united voice to better defend the interests of physiotherapists. These unions have played a decisive role in organizing national and local events, including the July 1st demonstration in Paris and the upcoming one in Dijon.

Demands driving collective action

The unions rely on specific demands, notably based on the signed amendment and respect for revaluation commitments. They also emphasize the need to improve work tools, strengthen support measures for installation in underserved zones, and advocate for a more favorable contractual framework to evolve the profession. Their message is clear: “a contract was signed and we have respected its terms; we want the State to do the same.”

In a recent statement relayed by media such as Le Bien Public, unions express their determination to continue the fight, aware of the difficulty but confident in their members’ mobilization to pressure decision-makers.

A symbolic and media action strategy

The decision to gather worn-out equipment and symbols of the profession in front of the CPAM illustrates a strong visual and symbolic impact. This call to action under the evocative name “The Cane Festival” aims for an effective spotlight on frustration, highlighting both infrastructure wear and financial difficulties. This action, scheduled at 1:30 pm on Boulevard de Champagne, may be supported by other professions such as nurses and pharmacists, who have recently demonstrated for their own demands in the region.

• ✊ Coordination between local and national unions
• ✊ Mobilization of physiotherapists refusing to see their purchasing power diminish
• ✊ Symbolic actions to maximize media visibility
• ✊ Support from other health professions in solidarity
• ✊ Dialogue wished with health insurance authorities

Union	Role	Recent actions
FFMKR	Local organization, departmental representation	Demonstration in Dijon, local mobilization
SNMKR	National demands, consultation with the ministry	National demonstration in Paris, July 1st
Alizé	Regional support and coordination	Awareness actions, targeted demonstrations

The potential consequences of this mobilization on access to care in Dijon and its region

The frustration of physiotherapists in Dijon is part of a broader issue that could significantly impact access to care and quality of services for patients. The heightened social tension caused by these demonstrations can be seen both as a warning signal and as a symptom of a system struggling to balance budgetary demands and healthcare needs.

Risks related to professional tensions and medical deserts

The mobilization serves as a warning about the risks of degraded care provision, especially in rural and underserved areas. An increasing number of physiotherapists now refuse to establish in these sectors, worsening shortages and extending waiting times for essential care. Confrontations with the Health Insurance over revaluations and installation conditions should not lead to an impasse that worsens existing difficulties.

The consequences could quickly include:

• ⛔ Extended waiting times for care
• ⛔ Decrease in the quality of delivered care
• ⛔ Exodus of professionals to more attractive areas
• ⛔ Growing shortages in underserved departments
• ⛔ Loss of patient confidence in the healthcare system

Consequence	Impact on patients	Impact on professionals
Prolonged patient wait times	Frustration, worsening conditions	Increased stress, workload overload
Reduced territorial coverage	Medical “white zones”	Isolation and recruitment difficulties
Reduction in practitioners	Decreased quality of care	Loss of motivation and attractiveness

The importance of dialogue with the Health Insurance in reforming physiotherapy practices in Dijon

The relationship between physiotherapists and the Health Insurance plays a central role in evolving working conditions and implementing reforms. The current climate, marked by discontent and mobilizations, underscores the urgency of constructive and respectful dialogue. This involves re-examining commitments made and establishing regular consultation to define a framework that meets both professionals’ expectations and budgetary constraints.

A contract to uphold to ensure trust

Physiotherapists particularly emphasize respecting the signed amendments and agreements. Their sense of having fulfilled their part of the contract—particularly regarding regulation of installation—calls for reciprocity, which has so far been lacking. Several union voices demand that Health Insurance authorities quickly materialize the announced financial commitments, thus avoiding increased tensions.

This desire for appeasement should be reflected through:

• 🤝 Transparent and regular negotiations with unions
• 🤝 A pragmatic consideration of economic data
• 🤝 An approach balancing fiscal discipline and support for professionals
• 🤝 Clear communication on schedules and implementation modalities
• 🤝 Development of tools facilitating administrative management

Aspect	Expectations of physiotherapists	Possible actions by the Health Insurance
Revaluation	Full respect for commitments	Gradual release of budgets
Installation	Concrete incentives	Targeted offers for underserved zones
Communication	Constant and transparent dialogue	Implementation of exchange platforms

Other health professions mobilized in Dijon: a collective dynamic

This demonstration by physiotherapists is part of a broader movement of protest by self-employed healthcare professionals in the region, demonstrating shared frustration and a desire for joint action in the face of increasing difficulties. Nurses, pharmacists, psychologists, and general practitioners have also demonstrated in recent months, each presenting their own demands while sharing converging issues related to recognition and working conditions.

A united front among professions

Physiotherapists are not isolated. The union of self-employed nurses and pharmacy associations have organized similar gatherings, some in coordination with physiotherapy unions. This convergence allows for a stronger front and to maximize the impact of mobilizations in negotiations with public authorities.

Furthermore, this collective momentum acts as a lever to foster a comprehensive reflection on reforming health practices in private practice, going beyond sector-specific demands.

• 🔗 Enhanced interprofessional solidarity
• 🔗 Increased visibility actions
• 🔗 Sharing field experiences
• 🔗 Advocating for a comprehensive, concerted reform
• 🔗 Improved working conditions for all

Profession	Recent mobilizations	Main demands
Physiotherapists	Demonstration in front of CPAM	Revaluation and recognition
Nurses	Local demonstrations	Revaluation of tariffs and conditions
Pharmacists	Gatherings outside the ARS	Management of remuneration and reimbursements
Psychologists	Recent demonstration in Dijon	Recognition and prescriptions

Future perspectives and issues linked to the reform of physiotherapy in France

The future of physiotherapy in Dijon, as throughout the country, will largely depend on decisions made in the coming months by the Health Insurance and the Ministry of Health. This sector, facing demographic, economic, and technological changes, must incorporate appropriate reforms to ensure not only the economic survival of clinics but also the quality and accessibility of care.

Necessary adaptation of tariff and regulation policies

Tariff revaluation remains a major issue. Confronted with persistent inflation and rising costs, physiotherapists expect significant adjustments and firm commitments. Respect for signed amendments must be a prerequisite to rebuild trust.

At the same time, regulating installations is an essential measure to counter medical desertification. However, this should be accompanied by effective financial and administrative incentives to encourage practice in underserved areas. This dual approach aims to meet territorial needs while respecting practitioners’ professional constraints.

Integration of technological innovations into physiotherapy practices

Modernizing practices is a key lever to maintain quality care. Advances in medical devices, telemedicine, and digital tools open interesting perspectives, provided professionals have the means to integrate them.

Without sufficient support, this transition could exacerbate territorial disparities and economic pressures on physiotherapists, adding difficulty in an already tense context.

• 🚀 Clear commitments and respect for revaluations
• 🚀 Incentives for rehabilitating underserved zones
• 🚀 Continuing education and digital integration
• 🚀 Strengthening dialogue between unions and health authorities
• 🚀 Regular monitoring and adjustments of existing measures

Challenge	Proposed solution	Expected benefit
Purchasing power loss	Effective tariff revaluation	Better economic stability
Medical desertification	Incentives for rural practice	Better distribution of care
Obsolescence of equipment	Financial support for modern equipment	Improved quality of care

Additional resources to better understand the physiotherapy mobilization and health issues in Dijon

To deepen understanding of this mobilization, various articles and studies are already available online. These sources provide additional insight into physiotherapists’ demands, the social dynamics in Dijon, and the national reform process.

• 📚 Anger among physiotherapists: “It’s been ten years since we were revalued”
• 📚 Angry, physiotherapists will demonstrate in front of the Health Insurance
• 📚 Physiotherapists in anger will march on Thursday
• 📚 A new demonstration scheduled for this Thursday in Dijon
• 📚 “We feel despised”… Revaluation canceled, issues persist among unhappy physiotherapists

Frequently Asked Questions about the physiotherapy demonstration in Dijon and the local health context

• ❓ Why are physiotherapists protesting in Dijon?
  Physiotherapists are protesting to denounce the lack of respect for their tariff revaluation commitments by the Health Insurance and to alert about the worsening of their working conditions.
• ❓ What is the role of unions in this mobilization?
  Unions such as FFMKR, SNMKR, and Alizé coordinate actions, voice demands, and negotiate with health authorities.
• ❓ What risks for patients if the situation continues?
  More difficult access to care, longer delays, potential decrease in treatment quality, especially in underserved rural areas.
• ❓ Is the demonstration supported by other healthcare professionals?
  Yes, nurses, pharmacists, and psychologists are also participating in similar mobilizations with converging demands.
• ❓ What are the prospects for improvement for physiotherapists in Dijon?
  Increased dialogue with the Health Insurance, firm commitments on revaluations, and incentive measures for installation are essential for a stable future.

Source: www.bienpublic.com