Certainly, I wouldn’t suggest shouting, but you (or your French friend if possible) can be considerably firmer and confrontational than would be accepted in England for example.
One method I heard that works well is to start by asking (firmly) what is the name of their boss. Obviously this question risks causing disconfort, but it could also start you off in a stronger position than the person you’re dealing with.
But obviously if you get someone nice and friendly, co-operative and functional at the other end of the line, it would make more sense to be gentle with them too.
Or you tell them that is who you want to speak to.
Ah yes… Veuillez remonter…I just tried that in another situation today. One that matters far, far less. Just as a practice run 
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This year is feeling a bit like GroundHog Day having to redo all of S1, CPAM and potentially carte vitale as well.
I’m grateful for all your advice on the thread, and will calmly tackle them this week.
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