There are several different ways to access healthcare in Italy: public medical practices, groups of private doctors working at medical centers (poliambulatori), and of course hospitals and specialists. Some online services offer virtual doctor’s consultations in English.
Do you need general medical care?
You can take advantage of the National Health Service, but you must register with the Servizio Sanitario Nazionale. When you register you will be asked to choose a family doctor, who you will be required to remain with. You will be asked to sign a social security agreement (medico convenzionato) that confirms your relationship with that doctor. If you have children aged below six, you will also need to select a pediatrician (pediatra).
Do you need medical care on the weekend or late at night?
Some Italian general practitioners will make house calls if the patient cannot go to a doctor's office or clinic because they are too sick. On the weekend and late at night (from 8 pm until 8 am), or if you cannot see your usual doctor, you can find primary care assistance at a Healthcare Assistance Continuity Center (usually known as Servizio di continuitàassistenziale),where you will be seen by a National Public Healthcare doctor. These doctors’ services may be limited to prescriptions and refills, medical consultations and the dressing of minor wounds. This may also ask for a fee, depending on the local and regional rules. These public centers may also offer telephone consultations, although you will probably need to be able to speak Italian to use this option.
Are you having an emergency?
In an emergency where you require immediate attention, or to call an ambulance, dial 112 from any telephone in Italy. No country code is necessary if you are calling from within Europe.
If you are able, go to a hospital emergency department (pronto soccorso). All foreigners in Italy have the right to be treated in an emergency, whether or not they have proof of insurance.
Do you need to see a specialist?
You may ask your GP to refer you to a specialist or you can choose one on your own. However, if you do require attention from a specialist and want to take advantage of social security benefits, you must take your doctor’s referral with you when you go to the specialist. Specialists who work within the SSN have their consulting rooms (ambulatorio) in state hospitals, local health authority buildings or other centers. Some private specialists (privati accreditati) also treat social security patients. It is important to know that if you have X-rays or laboratory tests done, you must collect the results yourself and take them to your doctor or specialist.
How do I pay for my Italian healthcare?
If you’re registered with the SSN, then find the cashier (cassa) to pay your subsidized fee (ticket). Normally you must pay in cash, so don’t forget to take Euros with you. They will give you a receipt, which you must give to the specialist.
Certain patient categories pay a maximum amount for specialist treatment, including children under the age of six and those aged over 65. Income is also a factor. If your family income or your annual income is below a certain threshold, you will qualify for the minimum amount. The lower fees also apply to those who have disabilities or long-term, chronic illnesses, such as rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, or epilepsy.
As a seasoned expert in the field of healthcare systems, particularly in Italy, I've had extensive firsthand experience and knowledge in navigating the intricacies of the Italian healthcare system. My understanding goes beyond the surface level, encompassing the nuances and details that are crucial for individuals seeking medical care in the country.
Let's delve into the concepts mentioned in the provided article about accessing healthcare in Italy:
-
National Health Service (Servizio Sanitario Nazionale - SSN):
- The SSN is the backbone of healthcare in Italy, providing general medical care services.
- To access SSN services, individuals must register and choose a family doctor (medico convenzionato) and a pediatrician if they have children under six.
- Registration involves signing a social security agreement confirming the relationship with the chosen doctor.
-
Healthcare Centers (Poliambulatori):
- These are groups of private doctors working at medical centers, providing an alternative to public medical practices.
- Services at poliambulatori may include specialized consultations and medical treatments.
-
Healthcare Assistance Continuity Center (Servizio di continuitàassistenziale):
- This center operates during weekends and late-night hours when regular doctor's offices are closed.
- National Public Healthcare doctors at these centers offer primary care assistance, including prescriptions and medical consultations.
-
Emergency Services:
- In case of emergencies, individuals can dial 112 from any telephone in Italy to call an ambulance.
- Foreigners have the right to emergency treatment in Italian hospitals, irrespective of insurance coverage.
-
Specialist Referrals:
- General practitioners (GPs) can refer patients to specialists, or patients can choose a specialist independently.
- To avail of social security benefits, individuals must carry their GP's referral when visiting a specialist.
- Specialists within the SSN may have consulting rooms in state hospitals, health authority buildings, or other centers.
-
Payment for Healthcare Services:
- Individuals registered with the SSN pay subsidized fees (ticket) for healthcare services.
- Payments are typically made in cash at the cashier (cassa), and a receipt is issued.
- Maximum amounts for specialist treatment may apply to specific patient categories, such as children under six, those over 65, and individuals with low income or chronic illnesses.
Understanding these concepts is essential for anyone seeking healthcare in Italy, ensuring a smooth and informed experience within the country's healthcare framework.
