Understanding the healthcare system in Italy.
Italy has both public and private healthcare systems. The Servizio Sanitario Nazionale (SSN) 'National Health Service' has provided public healthcare in Italy since 1978. The Ministero della Salute 'Ministry of Health' oversees the public services provided by the SSN. Public healthcare in Italy includes both inpatient and outpatient services, with limited dental coverage.
The public healthcare system is financed through taxes, with funds distributed to each of Italy’s 19 regions. Individual regions, such as Calabria and Tuscany, may impose their own additional taxes to meet local needs.
There are downsides associated with universal coverage, including lack of funding, high wait times and lower quality of care.
Italian citizens and expats experience differences in healthcare quality depending on the region. In general, services in the north are of higher quality than those in the south. Northern regions include Lombardy (Milan) and Veneto (Venice). Southern regions are home to Campania (Naples) and Sicily (Palermo).
It’s important to keep in mind that there is no way to opt out of the public healthcare system. However, many Italian residents and travelers choose to supplement the public health insurance with private medical insurance (PMI).
This private coverage is mostly used for outpatient services, while public coverage is used for inpatient treatment. The advantage of getting PMI is that those who are covered can choose their doctors and experience faster treatment for non-emergency services.
Italy’s health insurance requirements for expats and student travelers.
Are you moving abroad to Italy? Expats who are in Italy for 90+ days are considered "residents.” These expats need an entrance visa before arrival and must apply for a certificate of residency within 20 days of receiving their initial permit.
Expats and International Workers
Expats who stay for 12+ months must sign an integration agreement. A resident expat is considered to have the same rights as Italian citizens in terms of healthcare benefits.
Students Studying Abroad in Italy
International students must have insurance that covers the full length of their study abroad program. Students will likely be asked for a visa letter that details the coverage. General requirements for studying abroad in Italy are similar to those of the Schengen countries, which includes France, Germany and Greece.
Practical considerations for accessing healthcare in Italy.
Medical reports are usually given after the patient has been discharged and may not be prepared on an ongoing basis. As a result, you may need to ask local medical providers to give you access to your medical report during an inpatient stay if you need to share it with your international health insurance company.
Having a basic understanding of how healthcare is set up in Italy can help you access your care while abroad.
Getting healthcare in Italy as a non-E.U. citizen can seem overwhelming and confusing at first glance. Through obtaining an international health insurance plan that meets Italy’s requirements and your needs, you can reduce stress and focus on looking forward to your exciting stay.
