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Healthcare is organised regionally by the National Health Service (SSN), this provides universal coverage which is usually free or subsidised. The standard of healthcare in Italy, however, similarly to most countries varies enormously. The different regions in the country is dependant on the quality of healthcare that you receive. Private healthcare is highly considered but can be very expensive without the correct insurance. Read more to hear about the different types of healthcare in Italy.
Although public healthcare in Italy is free, most expats still opt to use private healthcare services. The healthcare provided has a high reputation and is supported by doctors that are well-trained and on the same level as some of the finest in the world. There are many impressive specialist facilities in larger urban areas. As well as the university hospital is highly reputable. Take a look at these international healthcare providers:
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The international health brand of Allianz is a global leader in insurance and assistance services. They stand out for their competitive prices and customer service. From private to international health insurance coverages, any medical treatment needed while you work or live abroad will be covered.
| Benefit | Care | Care Plus | Care Pro |
| Inpatient Care | Covered | Covered | Covered |
| Outpatient Care | âś“ | Covered | Covered |
| Maternity | – | Covered | Covered |
| Dental | Covered | Covered | Covered |
| Vision | Covered | Covered | Covered |
| Prescription Costs | Covered | Covered | Covered |
| Emergency medical evacuation | Covered | Covered | Covered |
Cigna Global is an international health insurance company well reputed. Focused on preventive care, they offer different plans and resources to help customers stay healthy and save money in the long run. They are specialized in healthcare services for travellers and users moving abroad.
| Benefit | Bronze | Silver | Gold | Platinum |
| Inpatient Care | Covered | Covered | Covered | Covered |
| Outpatient Care | Covered | Covered | Covered | Covered |
| Maternity | Covered | Covered | Covered | Covered |
| Dental | Optional | Optional | Optional | Optional |
| Vision | Optional | Optional | Optional | Optional |
| Prescription Costs | Can vary | Can vary | Can vary | Can vary |
| Emergency medical evacuation | Optional | Optional | Optional | Optional |
Being in the healthcare business for over 30 years, William Russell is an independent insurance provider. They are experts in international health insurance, life insurance, and income protection for expats. Their wide range of coverage options and prices are competitive. The company is also known for their excellent customer service.
| Benefit | Bronze Plan | Silver Plan | Gold Plan |
| Inpatient Care | Covered | Covered | Covered |
| Outpatient Care | Limited | Covered | Covered |
| Maternity | No | Limited | Covered |
| Dental | No | No | Covered |
| Vision | No | No | No |
| Prescription Costs | Limited | Covered | Covered |
| Emergency Medical Evacuation | Covered | Covered | Covered |
Weigh the pros and cons of each option before deciding. You can also request free quotes from our partner International Citizens Insurance. Their team of experts will help you choose the best option for you 👇.
SSN allows residents to access free or subsidised healthcare; however, most Italians make use of public healthcare but those that can afford it try and get the best of both worlds.
Servizio Sanitario Nazionale (SSN) is the national health service in Italy. It also ranks among the World Health Organisation’s top 10 countries for quality health services.
The validity of healthcare across the different regions is due to being governed by individuals from their cities. For example, public hospitals are known to offer higher standards of treatment in the northern and central regions than those in the south. Expats may therefore prefer to be treated in major cities such as Milan in cases of emergencies.
Private procedures similarly to the UK vary in cost, and the Ministry of Health sets a minimum charge for all operations in this sector. As a result, private healthcare can be very pricey making health insurance a necessity if it isn’t already provided by employers. The pros of private health care are it allows expats to avoid queues and complications and also creates more comfort and choice when it comes down to doctors and facilities.
Luckily the UK is an EU national so we can use the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). This allows access to public healthcare services in Italy. However non-EU expats will need to register for the SSN. This usually involves going to the nearest local health authority and applying for the card. Documents required to register include:
The emergency services number is 118; however, English-speaking operators may not be available. If expats don’t speak enough Italian to communicate in these emergencies, you can call 112, an emergency number serving all of Europe.
Italy attracts hundreds of expats each year with its beautiful climate and architecture. Thinking of moving there? Find out more about moving to Italy on our page.
