15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Italy

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

"Health care is a benefit to tax residents. The quality of care for public health ranges wildly depending on where you live. It is also difficult to get an appointment with a specialist. My sister is waiting 6 mos. to see a neurologist- and she lives in Tuscany. Also keep in mind that if you are hospitalized there are no aides. The assumption is that a family member will be there to wash/groom/dress you. Or feed you, if necessary. You are also responsible for bringing provisions like water and linens with you. If you don’t have family/friends to assist you, you must hire private care. Let’s face it, when it comes to health care, no country is a panacea," said one expat living in Palermo Sicily.

"Health Insurance in Italy is based on the "breadwinner's" income and then a nominal amount for family members. For us: middle income retirees...c. E1600/yr total. Rx very inexpensive," mentioned one expat in Italy.

"We have hospitals nearby (c. 20 miles) and helicopter access...no experience personally yet," commented one expat who moved to Italy.

"Emergency services in Italy are generally reliable and efficient. In the event of an emergency, the best way to call for an ambulance is to dial the number 118. This number is free of charge and is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The operator will ask for the caller's location and the type of emergency, and will then dispatch the appropriate emergency services," said one expat.

"Some of the cities in Italy renowned for having a wide range of medical specialists available include Rome, Milan, Naples, Florence, Verona, and Turin. Additionally, the coastal regions of Liguria, the Italian Riviera, are known for having quality medical care and an extensive selection of experienced medical providers. As the Italian healthcare system has a reputation for high standards of excellence, and the Italian tradition of leading-edge medical treatments and medical rehabilitation, many medical specialists and healthcare providers are available throughout the country," said one expat living in Italy.

"Yes, mostly (not Transderm Scop for motion sickness and not Botox). The Rx I do use I get and pay for at local pharmacy...they are a fraction of the U.S. with Ins cost and are packaged (blister packs for everything) differently but virtually identical to US Rx," said one expat.

"Prescription medications are widely available in Italy. Most pharmacies carry a wide range of medications, including both generic and brand-name drugs. Many of the medications available in Italy are the same as those available in other countries, although some may have different names. In addition, some medications may be available in Italy that are not available in other countries," remarked one expat in Italy.

"The quality of medical care and medical facilities in Italy is generally considered to be high. Italy has a large number of internationally renowned hospitals and is home to world-leading research in the field of medicine. Italian doctors and nurses are highly educated and trained, and many medical centers offer comprehensive medical services and treatments. Treatment of chronic and common medical conditions is of a particularly high standard. In addition, Italian citizens are entitled to free public healthcare through the national health system," said one expat.

"Yes, as a foreigner living in Italy, you will have access to public healthcare. The Italian public healthcare system is one of the best in Europe, providing comprehensive coverage for medical services, including hospital care, specialist visits, and preventive care. The quality of care is generally high, and the cost is relatively low compared to other countries. In addition, the Italian government provides subsidies for those who cannot afford the cost of healthcare," said an expat in Italy.

"The pandemic has had a significant impact on the Italian healthcare system. The country has seen a dramatic increase in the number of patients needing medical care, leading to overcrowding in hospitals and a shortage of medical staff and resources. In response, the government has implemented a number of measures to help manage the situation, such as increasing the number of beds in hospitals and providing additional funding for medical staff. Despite these efforts, the healthcare system has been stretched to its limits, with long waiting times for appointments and treatments. Additionally, the pandemic has caused a disruption in the supply of medical equipment and medicines, leading to shortages in some areas," wrote one expat.

"Haven't gone to the doctor since COVID. If need a refill prescription just call the doctor and he sends it to the pharmacy," commented one expat who moved to Pineto.