Understanding the Health System in Italy

Italy has a public and private healthcare system, both of which are available to foreigners. The public healthcare system is called Servizio Sanitario Nazionale (SSN) and is funded by taxes. It is free for Italian citizens and EU citizens, while non-EU citizens may be required to pay a fee. Expats and digital nomads are allowed to use the public healthcare system in Italy, although they may be required to pay a fee. Public hospitals are generally recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgery, although the quality of care may vary.

Italy's Public Healthcare System

The public healthcare system in Italy is called Servizio Sanitario Nazionale (SSN). It is funded by taxes and is free for Italian citizens and EU citizens, while non-EU citizens may be required to pay a fee. Expats and digital nomads are allowed to use the public healthcare system in Italy, although they may be required to pay a fee. Public hospitals in Italy are generally recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgery, although the quality of care may vary.

Italy's Private Healthcare System

Italy also has a private healthcare system, which is available to both Italian citizens and foreigners. Private healthcare is more expensive than public healthcare, but it is often seen as a better option for those who can afford it. Private hospitals in Italy are generally recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgery, as they tend to have better facilities and shorter wait times. Expats primarily use private hospitals, as they are not eligible for the public healthcare system.

Italy's Top Hospitals

Italy has a number of top hospitals, both public and private. Some of the most well-known hospitals in Italy include:

• Ospedale San Raffaele in Milan (private)
• Ospedale Fatebenefratelli in Rome (public)
• Ospedale San Camillo in Venice (public)
• Ospedale San Carlo in Naples (public)
• Ospedale San Martino in Genoa (public)
• Ospedale San Paolo in Milan (public)
• Ospedale San Gerardo in Monza (public)
• Ospedale San Bortolo in Vicenza (public)
• Ospedale San Raffaele in Turin (private)
• Ospedale San Raffaele in Rome (private)

Health Insurance Companies in Italy

The most popular private health insurers in Italy are Unisalute, FASI, and Allianz. These companies offer a range of health insurance plans, including basic coverage and more comprehensive plans. Expats and digital nomads typically use these companies, although some may opt for specialized expat health insurance providers.

Insider Tips from Expats in Italy: How to Navigate the Health System

"Use public healthcare system which is adequate and kept my federal employee insurance if I need it. Have used the insurance only a few times in ten years," commented one expat living in Pineto, Italy.

"My area in northern Italy has extremely good hospitals and doctors for major problems. There are many specialists if needed. The town doctor that we have been assigned is on the other hand not very dedicated or knowledgable. He is useful for refilling prescriptions and sending patients to specialists when needed," mentioned one expat living in Italy.

"I did not experience a need for healthcare in the town, so I cannot address this question," said an expat in Italy.

"I have experienced both the private and public healthcare systems in Florence and the level of care is very similar to what I used to have in Canada. The private system is pay for treatment, but the costs are reasonable," remarked one expat in Italy.

"The cost and quality of healthcare options in Italy is a primary reason why I will likely obtain residency and retire," said one expat living in Italy.

"If in serious health...seek English speaking private physician..."you get what you pay for"," commented one expat living in Italy.

"Healthcare services in Italy are provided by both public and private institutions. The public healthcare system is managed by the Ministry of Health and is funded by the government. It is generally of high quality and is available to all Italian citizens and foreign residents. Expats in Italy can use the public healthcare system by registering with the local health authority and obtaining a health card. This card allows them to access the same services as Italian citizens, including free or discounted medical care, hospitalization, and prescription drugs. Private healthcare is also available in Italy, and many expats opt to use private services for more specialized care," mentioned one expat living in Italy.