Drees data reveals optical out-of-pocket disparities by age and income in France

French health statistics agency Drees reported that the average out-of-pocket cost after complementary insurance reimbursement for all individualizable health expenses was 150 euros per person in 2023. Significant disparities exist: 80% of the population faced a moderate average cost of 40 euros, while the most exposed 20% bore an average of 580 euros, with optical equipment accounting for 200 euros within this high-cost group. Optical costs generally rise with age, reaching approximately 45 to 50 euros for those aged 60-69. Income also drives variation, with total out-of-pocket costs ranging from 80 euros for the lowest-income decile to 248 euros for the highest. The adoption of the "100% Santé" reform remains limited, with the Basket A category representing only 7% of lens spending in 2023.