Travelers insurance is always good if you need access to the best private clinics and hospitals.

Even without an insurance you can always go to a private doctor to get the prescription you need.
It's not to expensive.

In an emergency you can use public healthcare as well.

Ok, there's a law here now, in order to buy some kind of antibiotics you need to have a prescription, otherwise you're not gonna get your medicine in any farmacies you go. I know it's hard to understand why, but that's just the way it is here. The best thing to do in an emergency is to call first 192 SAMU they will go to your place or wherever you are and give the support you need. If eventually you'll need to go to a hospital they'll take you there. If isn't the case, you can go to the public hospitals wich I really don't think it's a good idea, you will waste 1 to 3 hours to get your support if somebody helps you. The best way is to go to a private doctor and get what you need right away you'll pay around $50 to $150 depending his specialties.

Edited by Rob Allen - 04 November 2012 at 21:58

Unlike the US you don't die if you lack insurance. Most cities have public hospitals and or clinics. It all depends on where you live for the quality of said clinics however. I've been in hospitals so packed you could barely get in write your name and get your place in line, but I've also been to clinics that because of the wealth of the city rival even the nicer walk in centers in the US IMO. Getting medication here is fairly easy but it all depends on what type. It's worth a try if you know exactly what you take but if not do as others said and see a private practice and pay up. Often times it's much cheaper than taking on international insurance for the very few times you need it.

You should always get travel insurance!

I got $20,000 from my travelers insurance to pay for an expensive back surgery, though its only for emergencies wouldn't recommend it for every day use.