Health Insurance in Italy, Europe

Information expatriation

Capital City: Rome
Total area: 301,318 km2
Population: 59,536,507 (2007)
Money: Currency Converter
Time Zone: List of time zones by country
Calling Code: +39 XXX

Practical Information:

Wikepedia Italy

Health Product: Travel Insurance and Health insurance
Health Insurance information and Sanitary Risk: World Health Map
BLOG: Expat Health insurance Information

Here is a brief description of the healthcare system in the country:

·      Italy has a public healthcare system that provides universal coverage to all residents, regardless of nationality or income.

·      It is decentralized and administered at the regional level through local health authorities (ASL).

·      Services are funded by general taxation, mandatory health insurance contributions from employers/workers, and out-of-pocket spending.

·      Healthcare is delivered through public and accredited private hospitals, clinics, pharmacies, and physicians/specialists. Patients can choose either.

·      Primary care is typically the first point of contact and includes family doctors and pediatricians. Referrals are required for specialists.

·      Hospital coverage is extensive and includes inpatient/outpatient, dental care, mental healthcare, and long-term care.

·      Estimated spending is around 8.8% of GDP. Care quality and access compares well internationally.

·      Private supplemental insurance is common to help cover treatment costs not fully reimbursed through the public system.

Here are some key health considerations for expatriates living in the country:

·      Register for Italy's public health system (SSN) through a regional ASL office as a foreign resident to receive a health card (tessera sanitaria).

·      Consider private international health insurance as a supplement to cover costs not fully reimbursed by SSN.

·      Select a primary care medico di famiglia/pediatra for routine needs via SSN registration. Specialists require referrals.

·      Understand prescription responsibilities, as some medicines may require partial private payment.

·      Italian or English are accepted nationwide but learning basic medical phrases aids in rural areas.

·      Note SSN coverage time limitations if employment ends that may require bridging insurance.

·      Address any pre-existing conditions prior to relocation through preventative checkups or specialized consultations as needed.

·      Consider supplemental dental/vision insurance, as these have partial SSN reimbursement caps.