Medicine & Veterinary Italy

In Italy, the health insurance system consists of two main types: public health insurance and private health insurance. Both types have their features, which can be beneficial for foreign citizens residing or temporarily staying in the country.

 

Public Health Insurance (SSN)

Public health insurance in Italy provides residents with free or subsidized medical care, including access to general practitioners, treatment in public hospitals, subsidized medications, and laboratory services. All Italian citizens and legal foreign residents are entitled to register with the SSN, which requires submitting an application to the local health authority. In some cases, registration in the system may require a fee, which depends on your income or visa category.

 

Features for foreigners:

- EU citizens: Can use the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to access SSN services during short stays.

- Non-EU citizens: Must have private health insurance or register with the SSN. For some categories (e.g., employed), SSN registration is mandatory.

 

Private Health Insurance

Private health insurance complements the public system and provides access to a wider range of medical services, such as choosing a doctor, using private clinics, reducing wait times, and receiving specialized care. Private insurance is especially popular among expats and those who prefer a higher level of service or require regular medical attention.

 

Major companies providing health insurance: Allianz Care, Generali, UnipolSai Assicurazioni, Axa, Cigna.

 

Thus, depending on your status and medical needs, both public and private insurance plans are available in Italy. Both options have their advantages and can be selected based on individual preferences and financial capabilities.

In Italy, medical services can be obtained both in public and private hospitals, each having its characteristics.

 

Public Hospitals

Italy provides its citizens and legal residents access to healthcare through the National Health Service (SSN). Public hospitals cover a wide range of medical services, including general medical care, inpatient treatment, specialized consultations, and surgeries. These services are partially or fully funded by the state; however, in some cases, a small co-payment may be required for certain procedures and medications. In public hospitals, patients can receive emergency care for free, even if they are not registered with the SSN.

 

There are several major public hospitals in Italy that are leading medical institutions in the country. Here are some of them:

 

Policlinico Umberto I (Rome) - One of the largest medical centers in Italy and Europe; it offers a wide range of medical services and serves as an important educational and research center.

 

Ospedale Niguarda Ca' Granda (Milan) - One of the largest and oldest hospitals in Italy; it specializes in providing highly specialized services such as cardiology, oncology, and neurosurgery; it also has its own trauma center.

 

Ospedale San Raffaele (Milan) - Although this is a private hospital, it works closely with public institutions and provides services funded through the SSN; it employs advanced treatment methods, especially in the fields of oncology and neurology.

 

Policlinico Sant'Orsola-Malpighi (Bologna) - The largest medical complex in the Emilia-Romagna region.

 

Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico (Milan) - A large hospital in Milan that is part of the public medical sector and provides a wide range of specialized services.

 

These hospitals play an important role in the Italian healthcare system and provide both general and specialized medical services at a high level.

 

Private Hospitals

Private medical facilities in Italy play an important role by providing higher standards of service and reducing wait times. Private clinics are often chosen by those who want to avoid long queues and have access to a broader range of specialists and comfort. Private hospitals can be either accredited (working under agreement with the SSN) or non-accredited, and the cost of treatment can vary significantly depending on the complexity of the service and type of insurance.

 

In Italy, there are several large private hospitals that provide high-quality medical services and are leading institutions in their field. Here are some of the largest and most well-known private hospitals in the country:

 

Ospedale San Raffaele (Milan) - One of the most well-known private hospitals in Italy. The hospital specializes in oncology, cardiology, neurology, and transplantology.

 

Humanitas Research Hospital (Rozzano, near Milan) - This is one of the largest and most renowned private research hospitals in Italy; it is known for its specialization in oncology, cardiology, and orthopedics.

 

Istituto Europeo di Oncologia (Milan) - A specialized private hospital known for its advanced cancer treatment methods. 

 

Casa di Cura La Madonnina (Milan) - One of the most prestigious private clinics in Milan; provides a wide range of medical services. 

 

Clinica Pinna Pintor (Turin) - A private hospital in Turin known for its services in surgery, orthopedics, and gynecology. 

 

How to choose and get help

- Public hospitals: To access the services of a public hospital, you must be registered with the SSN and have a health card. Appointments can be booked through Centro Unico Prenotazione (CUP), a service available in each region.

- Private hospitals: Access to private medicine often requires private health insurance. The cost of services and comfort of accommodation in private clinics can be significantly higher than in public ones, and the waiting time is usually shorter.

Registration with a family doctor

In Italy, every resident has the right to register with a family doctor through the National Health Service (SSN). The family doctor is the first point of contact for medical care and can refer the patient to specialists.

 

Registration steps:

1. Register with the SSN: If you are already registered with the SSN, you will be assigned a taxpayer number and receive a health card.

2. Choosing a doctor: Visit the nearest local health authority office and select an available doctor in your area. A list of doctors is usually available at the ASL or on their website.

3. Complete the documents: You will need to provide identification, a residence permit (if applicable), a tax number, and a health card. After registration, you will receive a document confirming your choice of doctor.

 

Appointment with a specialist

To visit a specialist, you usually need a referral from your family doctor. Depending on your preferences, this may be either a public specialist (through the SSN) or a private one.

 

Booking through SSN:

1. Obtain a referral: After consultation, the family doctor will issue you a referral to a specialist.

2. Booking through CUP: In most regions, appointments with specialists are made through the Centro Unico Prenotazione (CUP) — a centralized booking system. You can book an appointment online, by phone, or in person at the CUP. The booking process may vary depending on the region.

 

Private Services:

- You can contact a specialist directly by reaching out to a private clinic or doctor. In this case, you will not need a referral from a family doctor, but the consultation costs are typically higher.

 

Online Booking

In recent years, online appointment booking services with doctors, including video consultations, have been actively developed in Italy.

 

Popular Platforms:

- Doctoralia and MioDottore: These platforms allow you to find specialists, read reviews, and book appointments online. They support both private and public healthcare facilities.

- Fascicolo Sanitario Elettronico (FSE): In some regions, an integrated electronic medical records system is available, which allows online appointment booking, as well as managing medical documents and test results.

Emergency medical care in Italy is provided by both public and private healthcare facilities and includes a wide range of services, from ambulance calls to treatment in emergency departments.

Calling an Ambulance

In Italy, you can call an ambulance by dialing 118 — a specialized number for medical emergencies. The single European emergency services number 112 is also available, which will direct you to the appropriate service depending on the type of emergency.

 

Process in Emergency Departments

Upon arrival at an emergency department, patients undergo a triage process that determines the urgency of medical care. Each patient is assigned a color code indicating the level of urgency:

- Red code: Immediate life threat, treatment begins immediately.

- Orange code: Serious situation, intervention required within 15 minutes.

- Green code: Less serious situation, waiting time could be up to 120 minutes.

- White code: Non-urgent cases, possibly the longest waiting time.

 

Cost of emergency care

Emergency care in Italy is usually provided for free or at a minimal cost. However, if a patient seeks care for a non-urgent case (white code), a fee may be charged, especially if the care is provided in a private clinic or if the patient is uninsured.

 

Availability of private emergency care

Private clinics and hospitals also offer emergency care services, but these services are paid for by the patient or their insurance company. In private institutions, waiting times are usually shorter, and the conditions are more comfortable.

In Italy, the procedure for undergoing medical tests and examinations is well-structured and can be done through either the public healthcare system or private clinics.

Doctor's referral

The first step to take tests or undergo an examination in Italy is usually obtaining a referral from a family doctor or a specialist. A referral is required for all types of medical services, including blood tests, X-rays, ultrasound scans, and other diagnostic procedures.

Obtaining results

- Results through SSN: Test results are usually available within a few days and can be obtained through the doctor who provided the referral or through regional online SSN services, such as Fascicolo Sanitario Elettronico (FSE), if available in your region.

- Results in private clinics: In private clinics, results may be ready faster, sometimes on the same day. Results can be received in person, by email, or through the clinic's website.

In Italy, there are numerous laboratories and medical centers where you can take tests and undergo examinations, the most popular of which include:

Synlab — one of the largest networks of laboratories in Europe, including Italy; offers a wide range of medical tests, including blood, urine, genetic tests, and much more.

Cerba Healthcare — an international network of laboratories, actively operating in Italy; provides diagnostic and laboratory analysis services, including specialized tests and comprehensive examinations; also offers genetic testing services and specialized medical research.

Centro Diagnostico Italiano — a large diagnostic center in Milan with branches throughout Italy; offers a wide range of diagnostic services, including laboratory tests, X-rays, ultrasound examinations, and magnetic resonance imaging. 

Lifebrain — a network of laboratories specializing in laboratory tests and diagnostic services; offers both standard and specialized tests, including infection testing and genetic tests.

Humanitas — a network of clinics and laboratories offering both outpatient and inpatient medical services; offers a wide range of analyses.

Preparing for childbirth in Italy includes several important stages, from choosing a hospital and doctor to ensuring adequate medical insurance. It's important to start preparations in advance to be confident that all aspects are taken into account.

 

Choosing a hospital

In Italy, expectant parents can choose between public and private hospitals.

 

- Public hospitals: provide maternity services free of charge or for a minimal fee. Childbirth in public hospitals usually includes a standard set of services such as prenatal check-ups, delivery, and postpartum observation. These hospitals are well-equipped but may be busy, especially in large cities.

 

- Private clinics: offer more personalized care, the option to choose a specific doctor, and more comfortable accommodation conditions. In private clinics, waiting times are often shorter and comfort levels higher, but services here are significantly more expensive.

 

Choosing a doctor

Choosing a doctor is one of the key aspects of preparing for childbirth. If you choose a public hospital, you will be assigned a doctor or midwife working at that hospital. In private clinics, you have the option to choose a doctor who will guide you throughout the pregnancy and deliver the baby.

 

Medical insurance

Medical insurance plays an important role in covering the costs of childbirth and related medical services.

 

- Public insurance: If you are registered with the SSN, most of the costs of childbirth and postpartum observation will be covered.

 

- Private Insurance: If you prefer a private clinic or want access to extended services such as choosing a doctor, a private room, or additional examinations, you will need private health insurance. 

 

Partner Delivery

Partner delivery, where a partner or another close person is present during childbirth, is becoming increasingly popular in Italy. If you plan on having a partner delivery, it is important to discuss this with your chosen hospital in advance. In most cases, hospitals require prior registration for partner participation in the delivery.

 

 Hospital Discharge

Upon discharge, the mother and the child are issued medical documents, including a birth certificate, test results, and recommendations for further care. The doctor may also schedule follow-up examinations at a clinic or with a pediatrician.

 

Further Care: After discharge, the mother and child can receive further care from a family doctor or pediatrician, who will monitor the child's development and the mother's health condition.

 

Vaccination

Vaccination is carried out in accordance with the national immunization calendar and is regulated by the Ministry of Health of Italy. In Italy, 10 vaccines are mandatory for all children, which include:

- Diphtheria

- Tetanus 

- Pertussis 

- Poliomyelitis 

- Hepatitis B 

- Haemophilus influenzae type b 

- Measles 

- Mumps 

- Rubella 

- Chickenpox - not in all regions

 

In the case of refusal of mandatory child vaccination, parents may face sanctions such as restricted access to kindergartens and schools. In some cases, fines may be imposed. Italian legislation is strict about vaccination, especially following outbreaks of infectious diseases such as measles.

The death of a foreigner in Italy requires certain procedures to be followed, including notifying the authorities, processing the documentation, and organizing the repatriation of the body, if necessary. 

 

Notification of Death

In the event of a foreigner's death, the first step is to notify the local authorities:

- Calling medical services: If death occurs at home, it is necessary to call emergency services at number 118 or the police at number 112 to confirm the death and process the necessary documentation.

- Notification of the consulate: Relatives or representatives of the deceased need to contact the consulate of the country of which the deceased was a citizen as soon as possible. The consulate can assist with documentation and repatriation of the body.

 

Documentation processing

After death, a number of legal documents need to be processed:

- Death certificate: This document is issued by the doctor who confirmed the death, or by a government body after registering the death in the civil status registration department.

- Permit for burial or cremation: The permit is issued after the death certificate is processed and confirms the possibility of conducting funeral proceedings.

 

Organization of the funeral or repatriation

- Funeral in Italy: Specialized agencies handle the organization of funerals, which can help with the selection of a cemetery, crematorium, and other aspects of the funeral.

- Repatriation of the body: If the decision is made to send the body or urn with ashes to the homeland, the consulate and funeral agency will help with the documentation, including the consular certificate, transportation permit, and other necessary documents.

Financial and legal issues

After the death of a foreigner, financial and legal issues may need to be resolved:

- Property issues: It will be necessary to arrange inheritance rights to the deceased's property, which may require the services of a notary and a lawyer.

- Insurance: In case of an existing insurance policy, it may be necessary to submit a claim for insurance compensation.

 

Additional actions

- Document translation: If needed, documents such as the death certificate may be translated into the deceased's country of origin's language.

- Informing relatives: It is important to ensure timely notification of all interested parties and relatives of the deceased.

Mandatory vaccinations for dogs

- Rabies: Vaccination against rabies is mandatory for dogs, especially if you plan to travel with your pet around Europe or in regions with a high risk of infection. The vaccination should be administered no later than 21 days before the intended travel and is typically repeated annually or every three years depending on the type of vaccine.

  

- Other important vaccinations: Although not mandatory at a national level, veterinarians highly recommend vaccinations against:

  - Canine distemper

  - Infectious hepatitis

  - Parvovirus

  - Leptospirosis

  These vaccines are usually included in the standard vaccination schedule for puppies.

 

Mandatory vaccinations for cats

- Rabies: For cats, as well as for dogs, rabies vaccination is mandatory for international travel or attending exhibitions. Within the country, rabies vaccination is not mandatory, but it may be recommended depending on the region and lifestyle of the cat.

 

- Veterinarians also recommend vaccinations against:

  - Panleukopenia

  - Rhinotracheitis

  - Calicivirus

  - Chlamydiosis.

  

Identification and registration

- Microchipping: In Italy, microchipping of dogs is mandatory. A microchip helps to identify the animal and return it to its owner if lost. Registration in the national database is also mandatory. Although microchipping for cats is not mandatory, it is highly recommended.

 

Deworming and parasite treatment procedures

- Deworming: Regular deworming (treatment against worms) is important for the health of the animals. 

- Flea and tick treatment: Depending on the season and living area, regular treatments for external parasites such as fleas and ticks are recommended using special products.

 

Traveling with pets

- Veterinary passport: For traveling within the EU with a pet, including in Italy, a veterinary passport is required. It must contain vaccination information, including rabies vaccination, and may also require an indication of conducted deworming treatments.

In Italy, there are numerous hotels and shelters for animals that provide care services for pets during your absence. These facilities offer a wide range of living conditions and care options, from basic accommodations to luxury settings with various additional services.

Animal Hotels

Animal hotels in Italy offer temporary accommodation and care for pets such as dogs, cats, and other animals. Here are the main features of such establishments:

- Accommodation and care: Animals are provided with separate living spaces, regular walks, feeding, and basic medical care. Some hotels also have areas for play and socialization with other animals.

- Additional services: Depending on the hotel level, additional services like grooming, training, photoshoots, and even video surveillance may be offered, allowing owners to watch their pets remotely.

 

Animal Shelters

Animal shelters in Italy play an important role in the protection and care of homeless animals. They handle not only temporary accommodation but also finding new homes for animals.

Conditions of care: Animals in shelters receive necessary nutrition, medical care, and attention. Volunteers often assist with the socialization of animals and organizing adoption events.

Examples: Among well-known shelters are ENPA, which has branches throughout the country, and OIPA, also actively operating in Italy.

Keeping pets in Italy is regulated by a number of laws and regulations aimed at ensuring their well-being and protection.

Legislative requirements

- Mandatory registration and microchipping.

- Living conditions: Owners must provide proper living conditions, including adequate nutrition, access to fresh water, regular walks for dogs, and suitable sleeping conditions. It is prohibited to leave animals unsupervised for extended periods or subject them to cruelty.

Medical care and vaccination

- Mandatory vaccinations. It is also recommended to administer regular vaccinations against other common diseases.

- Preventive treatment: Regular deworming and treatment for fleas and ticks are important aspects of pet care.

Traveling with pets

- Pet passport: For travel within European Union countries, pets are required to have a passport.

Treatment and welfare

- Prohibited actions: Italy has strict laws against animal abuse. Cruelty, neglect, or leaving an animal in dangerous conditions can lead to fines and even criminal liability.

- Socialization and training: It is important to properly socialize and train your pet, especially if it is a dog. A well-trained and socialized dog feels more comfortable in society and avoids behavioral problems.

Owner responsibilities

- Cleanliness and order: Owners must maintain cleanliness in public areas by cleaning up after their pets during walks. In some cities, additional rules may be enforced, such as the mandatory use of leashes or muzzles for certain dog breeds.

Community involvement

- Clubs and events: In Italy, pet enthusiast clubs are popular where owners can share experiences, participate in competitions and exhibitions, and receive advice on pet care and training.

Keeping pets in apartment buildings

Keeping pets in apartment buildings in Italy is regulated by a series of rules and norms aimed at ensuring a comfortable living environment for both the animals and the neighbors.