Understand the French Hospital Federation: definition and challenges

The French Hospital Federation (FHF) represents an essential structure bringing together more than 1,000 hospitals and 3,800 medico-social establishments across the territory. Since its creation in 1924, it has played a key role in the organization and proper functioning of the French public health system. Its missions include defending the values of accessibility, innovation, and quality in care, while ensuring the autonomy of establishments. In the face of the many challenges facing the health sector, the FHF is committed to promoting a collaborative logic among the various stakeholders in health to improve care pathways and the management of users. Through this initiative, it is part of a dynamic reflection on the future of the health system in France.

The French Hospital Federation (FHF) is an organization that brings together more than 1,000 hospitals and about 3,800 medico-social structures across France. Founded in 1924, the FHF plays a fundamental role in the organization of the French health system. Its mission is to defend the interests of public health establishments and to ensure the coherence of care at the national and local levels.

The FHF positions itself as the common home of hospital workers, welcoming a wide variety of actors in the health field. Its board of directors comprises health professionals, elected officials, establishment directors, as well as users. This diversity of perspectives contributes to improving the quality of care, promoting innovation in patient management, and guaranteeing equal access to care for all.

One of the major challenges for the FHF is to defend the autonomy of hospital and medico-social establishments. This autonomy allows for an intelligent adaptation to real-world conditions, taking into account local specificities and population needs. By promoting this independence, the FHF advocates for a quality, accessible, and responsive public health service.

The FHF also positions itself as a key player in public and political debates concerning health issues. By formulating proposals on the current challenges of the health system, the FHF seeks to influence political decisions to improve the health of the population. These proposals are often the result of a thorough analysis of the dysfunctions identified during health crises, such as the COVID-19 crisis, which highlighted the need for a reorganization of the French health system.

Another essential aspect of the FHF’s mission is the search for innovative solutions to face public health challenges. The federation works on initiatives concerning digital health, disease prevention, and the improvement of care pathways. Through its network of experts and working groups, the FHF engages in reflections to guide health policies towards an integrated and multidisciplinary approach.

The FHF also focuses on themes related to the careers and competencies of health professionals. By ensuring appropriate training and supporting career development, the federation ensures that hospital staff can meet the increasing demands of the sector. This dynamic directly contributes to the quality of care provided in establishments.

Finally, the FHF has a coordinating role between the health sector and the medico-social sector. The goal is to improve the coherence of care pathways as well as the management of elderly individuals and those with disabilities. By placing the user at the heart of its concerns, the FHF strives to streamline transitions between different establishments and ensure continuous follow-up of patients.

FAQ about the French Hospital Federation