Italy Health Insurance

The Italian Republic, commonly referred to as Italy, is located in central Europe and it shares borders with Switzerland, France, Slovenia and Austria. With approximately 61.6 million people, Italy is the fifth most populous country in Europe. Italy and its capital city of Rome in particular was for many centuries the religious and political center of European civilization. The Italian Renaissance at the beginning of the 14th century is widely recognized as being instrumental in provoking intense cultural change in Europe and this period is widely credited as the beginning of Early Modern Europe. Today, Italy plays a central role in European and global political affairs and is a member of the G8, G20 and NATO. Italian citizens enjoy a high standard of living and the country consistently ranks within the top 10 on the annual quality of life index. The Italian economy is the eighth largest in the world; the main sectors of the domestic economy are agriculture and wine production, industry, manufacturing and tourism.

Italy Health Care and Insurance

The health care system in Italy is widely regarded as being one of the best in Europe. Health care is delivered to all citizens and residents through a mix of public and private health care. The Servizio Sanitario Nazionale (SSN) provides public health care services under the direction of local health authorities and all Italian citizens, legal residents and European Union (EU) citizens are entitled to access SSN or public health facilities should they require medical assistance. The SSN is funded by a health tax paid by employers on behalf of employees resulting in employees and their dependents being entitled to free or low cost health care. A comprehensive range of treatments are available under the SSN scheme including in-patient, out-patient, dental, surgery and specialist services. Non-EU citizens have access to emergency treatment and services only; they are required to pay full hospital charges for any subsequent treatment or consultations. Expatriates and travelers, particularly non-EU citizens, are advised to purchase a comprehensive international Italy health insurance policy which will ensure access to health services should the need arise.

With the exception of cost, there is very little difference between the standard of health care and services available at both public and private health facilities in Italy as many of the country’s health professional’s work in both state run and private clinics and hospitals. Private health facilities operate in more comfortable surroundings and are generally better equipped with modern and up to date medical technology. The Ministry of Health in Italy operates a minimum charge for surgical procedures thus medical costs at some private facilities can be quite expensive. Expatriates who are relocating to Italy and who are not citizens of EU countries should note that they are required to provide proof of health insurance cover before their employment or residence permit will be issued.

Italy Travel Insurance Concerns

A large percentage of Italian citizens and expatriates who qualify for the SSN scheme supplement their health coverage with some form of private health insurance. There are a number of flaws within the public health sector that have resulted in some citizens seeking assistance and treatment at private facilities. There is insufficient staff at many public facilities and in some areas there are not enough hospitals and clinics to cover the population. As a result, long waiting times are common and patients may be required to wait a number of weeks for specialist or complicated surgeries. Italy has an ageing population with its old age pensioners being entitled to free medical care and prescription medicines. Increased allocation of funds is now being allocated to cover these costs and diverting badly needed finance away from increasing the number of health workers and improving health facilities. Expatriates and travelers are advised to purchase an international Italy health insurance policy which will help ensure swift access to treatment at private health facilities should medical assistance be required.

Tourists visiting Italy are advised to consult with a travel health specialist at least four weeks prior to arrival in the country. The routine vaccination should be updated accordingly and a rabies vaccination should be considered by nature enthusiasts visiting rural parts of the country. Stomach illness is the most common ailment among travelers and undercooked and raw food should be avoided at all times. While the mains tap water is generally safe for consumption, bottled water should be used where available.

Italy Expat Health Insurance

Italy has an excellent health care system capable of providing modern and attentive care to its citizens. However, a number of issues such as long waiting times and shortages of personnel continue to blight public health services and expatriates and travelers who require medical attention while in Italy are advised to use private health facilities where possible. Costs at private facilities can be higher than those at public facilities and it is therefore important to hold private health insurance which will protect against expensive medical costs. Professional advisors at Expat Medical Insurance can help you choose which product or policy is best suited to your particular needs. For more information on international Italy health insurance, global health insurance or to receive a free quote, please contact one of our advisors today.