Spa treatments: what are the opinions of general practitioners?

Do GPs Offer Spa Treatments to Their Patients? Answers in White Coats

A general practitioner based in Biarritz, Dr. Guillaume Barucq is an active ambassador for surf therapy, or the health benefits of seawater, and an active advocate for prescribed exercise. So what does he think of spa treatments?

"Delisting would be a catastrophe. And contrary to what one might imagine, it would be a source of increased health spending: cures weigh very little in the Social Security budget (0.13%). On the other hand, the gain is spectacular for patients in terms of reduced drug treatments, disappearance of pain for 6, 9, or even 12 months. Let's add that thermalism is also a way to curb health spending on medication. In France, and particularly in Aquitaine, the thermal spa offering is exceptional and can treat all pathologies. There is a spa for each illness: joint problems, dermatological problems, respiratory tract problems, psychiatric problems, and even to treat metabolic or urinary disorders. Each thermal water has its own medicinal specificities, complemented by treatments and a surrounding ecosystem. I think we need to start from scratch by teaching thermal medicine to all doctors and updating them on the scientific studies clearly establishing proof of its effectiveness. We need to learn about it. Some people still too often equate it with a vacation in a swimming pool, out of ignorance, when in fact it is real care. As a general practitioner, I am currently obtaining a diploma in thermal medicine. During this training, I did the Tour de France of thermal spas and I continue to discover their benefits and richness.

In Bordeaux, however, Dr. Delvau does not prescribe spa treatments to his patients. "Not because I am not convinced by spa medicine, even though I am not an expert in this field either, but because I have not perceived the need for it for my patients, considering that I also have a generally young patient base."

In Amou (40), Dr. Darmaillacq does not hesitate to prescribe cures to his patients. "Firstly, because we are in a rich thermal region, the effectiveness of thermal treatments in rheumatology, ENT, phlebology, cardiology, psychiatry or gynecology in our region is obvious. In addition, these thermal establishments support comprehensive patient care with support in therapeutic education on diet, adapted physical activity, sleep etc., all areas that are essential in the management of overall health, especially in cases of chronic illness. For the general practitioner that I am, this comprehensive care is crucial. Thermalism is part of the therapeutic arsenal that doctors have at their disposal."