I thought it was a bit too simple.

It had only taken three visits to the Caisse Primaire to arrange CC's medical cover and then a very quick one to sort out the additional insurance at the Mutuelle.

CC has had quite a few appointments since March and although the state system paid up promptly it left a hole in the finances. She has been paying 50 euros a month to complete her cover since May but nothing has appeared on her bank statements by way of reimbursement.

So I telephoned to ask why.

After taking  the long reference number and listening to my problem the lady at the other end of the phone kept me waiting while she looked up the 'dossier'.

"What is your daughter's date of birth?"

I gave it to her.

"Oh yes, we don't have the correct date of birth so we couldn't pay."

"You mean to say that you refuse to pay because her birthdate is entered incorrectly?"

"Yes, if there's a problem like that the claim is automatically rejected."

"It's a pity no-one thought to let us know."

"Oh, it's not up to us to do that, Madame." she retorted politely.

"Well what do I have to do about it?" I asked between gritted teeth but making an effort to be polite back.

"You must ask your daughter to let us have all the papers from the CPAM. Then we'll be able to pay her."

"Alright, we'll do that, thank you."

"Non, c'est moi. Bonne journée madame."

I explained it all to CC. She was amazed. But, really, it's not that surprising. C'est la France.