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Healthcare and Health Insurance in Florence, Italy | Expat Exchange
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Florence, Italy

Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Florence, Italy

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Apr 20, 2023

Summary: The quality of medical care in Florence, Italy is generally considered to be on par with the United States. Florence is home to several hospitals and clinics, including the Careggi University Hospital, the Meyer Children's Hospital, the Santa Maria Nuova Hospital, and the San Giovanni di Dio Hospital. Additionally, there are numerous private clinics and medical centers throughout the city. Emergency services in Florence are provided by the Fire Department, and an ambulance can be called by dialing the emergency number 112.

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How are healthcare services Florence?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Florence, they replied:

"Florence is home to a wide variety of healthcare services. The city is home to a number of public and private hospitals, as well as a number of specialized clinics and medical centers. The city also has a number of pharmacies, providing both prescription and over-the-counter medications. Additionally, Florence is home to a number of medical professionals, including general practitioners, specialists, and nurses. The city also has a number of medical research centers, providing the latest in medical technology and treatments. Finally, Florence is home to a number of health insurance providers, allowing residents to access the healthcare services they need," commented one expat living in Florence, Italy.

What are medical services in Florence like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Florence, they replied:

"Florence offers a wide range of medical services for both locals and visitors. The city is home to a number of hospitals, clinics, and medical centers that provide a variety of treatments and services, including general medicine, emergency care, and specialized treatments. Florence also has a number of pharmacies and health stores that offer a range of over-the-counter medications and health products. Additionally, the city is home to a number of private medical practices that offer specialized treatments and services," commented one expat living in Florence, 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," wrote one expat.

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Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Florence?

"Healthcare in Florence is generally considered to be of a high quality and is available to all citizens. However, it can be expensive for those who do not have health insurance. Health insurance in Florence is available through private companies, and the cost of coverage can vary depending on the type of plan chosen. Generally, the cost of health insurance in Florence is higher than in other parts of Italy, but it is still relatively affordable compared to other countries," mentioned one expat in Florence.

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What are emergency services like in Florence?

When we asked about emergency services, members in Florence wrote:

"Emergency services in Florence are provided by the Fire Department, the Police Department, and the Emergency Medical Service. In the event of an emergency, the best way to call for an ambulance is to dial the national emergency number, 112. This number is free of charge and is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The operator will then connect you to the appropriate emergency service," said an expat in Florence.

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Will I need to travel to see a specialist?

"Yes, Florence has a good number of medical specialists. People in Florence can go to the Careggi University Hospital for highly specialized medical care. The hospital is one of the largest and most advanced in the country, and it is home to a wide range of specialists, including cardiologists, neurologists, oncologists, and orthopedic surgeons. Additionally, there are several private clinics in Florence that offer specialized medical care, such as the Santa Maria Nuova Hospital and the San Giovanni di Dio Hospital," said an expat in Florence.

Are common prescription medications available in Florence?

"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Florence. Most pharmacies in the city carry a wide range of medications, including those for common ailments such as colds, allergies, and headaches. Many pharmacies also offer specialized medications for more serious conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. In addition, many pharmacies offer over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements," mentioned one expat in Florence.

Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Florence?

"Florence has a wide range of medical facilities and medical care available. The city is home to several hospitals, including the Careggi University Hospital, the Meyer Children's Hospital, and the Santa Maria Nuova Hospital. Additionally, there are numerous private clinics and medical centers located throughout the city. The quality of medical care in Florence is generally considered to be very good, with many doctors and specialists trained in the latest medical techniques and technologies. The city also has a number of pharmacies, providing access to a wide range of medications," remarked one expat in Florence.

As a foreigner living in Florence, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?

"Yes, as a foreigner living in Florence, you will have access to public healthcare. The public healthcare system in Italy is known for its high quality of care and is available to all citizens and legal residents. The system is funded by taxes and is free at the point of service. The public healthcare system in Italy is divided into two parts: the National Health Service (Servizio Sanitario Nazionale) and the Local Health Authority (Azienda Sanitaria Locale). The National Health Service provides general healthcare services, while the Local Health Authority provides specialized services. In addition, there are private healthcare providers that offer services at a cost," mentioned one expat in Florence.

What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?

We asked expats in Florence if they have access to public healthcare in Florence. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...

"The healthcare system in Florence has been strained during the pandemic, with hospitals and clinics struggling to keep up with the influx of patients. Despite the challenges, the healthcare system has been doing its best to provide quality care to those in need. Appointments have been made available online, and the healthcare system has been quick to respond to any inquiries or concerns. The healthcare system has also been providing free testing for those who are at risk of contracting the virus. Overall, the healthcare system in Florence has been doing its best to provide quality care to those in need during this difficult time," said one expat.

"I had multiple covid tests all efficiently and affordably executed. Lockdowns were serious and controlled. It helps to know the language. Things changed daily and often I was on my own to figure out the rules. It helps to belong to expat blogs," remarked one expat in Florence.

What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Florence?

We asked expat moms who gave birth in Florence about their experiences and advice they have for other moms to be. They said:

"1. Make sure to research the healthcare system in Florence and the surrounding area to ensure you have access to the best care for you and your baby. 2. Consider joining a local expat group or online forum to connect with other expats who have had babies in Florence and can provide advice and support. 3. Familiarize yourself with the Italian language and culture to make the transition to parenthood in Florence smoother. 4. Take advantage of the many cultural activities and attractions Florence has to offer, such as museums, parks, and festivals, to keep your baby entertained and engaged. 5. Make sure to take time for yourself and your partner to relax and enjoy the city. Florence is a beautiful place to raise a family and you should take advantage of the opportunity to explore and experience it," said one expat in Florence.

Are healthcare services good in Florence?

We asked people if they have access to good medical care in Florence. They wrote:

"Florence offers a wide range of healthcare services for its citizens and visitors. The city is home to several public and private hospitals, as well as numerous clinics and medical centers. The public healthcare system in Florence is provided by the National Health Service (Servizio Sanitario Nazionale), which offers free or low-cost medical care to all citizens. Private healthcare services are also available, with many clinics and hospitals offering a range of treatments and services. Florence also has a number of specialized medical centers, such as the Florence Institute of Oncology, which provides cancer treatments and research. Additionally, Florence is home to a number of pharmacies, providing access to medications and other health-related products," explained one expat living in Florence.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

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