Asalée Association Faces Financial Crisis and Protests Over Unpaid Nurses

Nurses within the Asalée system in France have not received payment for over fifty days, prompting plans for a demonstration in Port-Sainte-Marie. The situation highlights a deepening conflict between the association and the French National Health Insurance Fund (CNAM).

Nurses’ Plight and Planned Demonstration

Annie Thorel, a public health nurse delegate for Asalée, expressed her frustration, stating, “During Covid, we were applauded and today we are experiencing the worst situation.” As of March 21, 2026, Thorel had not been paid for fifty-three days. She and thirteen colleagues in Lot-et-Garonne are scheduled to protest on Thursday, March 26, 2026, at the Port-Sainte-Marie health center parking lot. The demonstration aims to “save our association that the CNAM is trying to suffocate by refusing to pay the funds necessary to pay our salaries.” The Paris Economic Affairs Court is expected to deliver a decision regarding Asalée’s legal recovery proceedings on March 26, 2026.

About Asalée: Therapeutic Education and Key Services

Founded in 2004, Asalée, which stands for Liberal Team Health Action, operates nationally with 9,155 doctors and 2,080 nurses. The organization focuses on therapeutic education, working alongside doctors to support patients with conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular risks, sleep disorders, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and asthma. Asalée also contributes to early detection programs for overweight children and adolescents and participates in cancer screening campaigns. Its services are particularly vital in areas with limited access to healthcare.

The Conflict with CNAM

The CNAM, which provides approximately €100 million in annual funding to Asalée, suspended payments due to concerns raised by a July 2023 report from the General Inspectorate of Social Affairs (IGAS). The IGAS report identified governance and management dysfunctions within the organization.

Margot Bayart, president of Asalée, has refuted these claims, denouncing what she describes as “state lies” and “institutional mistreatment.” She alleges interference from the CNAM through a supervisory committee and is actively working to expose what she believes is a “scandal.”

Personal Impact on Nurses

Annie Thorel, 55, shared the personal toll of the financial uncertainty, describing the anguish, sleepless nights, and challenges of supporting her family, including a dependent student son and a husband with health issues. “It’s incredibly complicated to live with. I have the feeling of being taken hostage,” she stated.