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There are several different ways to access healthcare in Italy: public medical practices, groups of private doctors working at medical centers (poliambulatori), and of course hospitals and specialists. Some online services offer virtual doctor’s consultations in English.

Do you need general medical care?

You can take advantage of the National Health Service, but you must register with the Servizio Sanitario Nazionale. When you register you will be asked to choose a family doctor, who you will be required to remain with. You will be asked to sign a social security agreement (medico convenzionato) that confirms your relationship with that doctor. If you have children aged below six, you will also need to select a pediatrician (pediatra).

Do you need medical care on the weekend or late at night?

Some Italian general practitioners will make house calls if the patient cannot go to a doctor's office or clinic because they are too sick. On the weekend and late at night (from 8 pm until 8 am), or if you cannot see your usual doctor, you can find primary care assistance at a Healthcare Assistance Continuity Center (usually known as Servizio di continuità �����������ٱ�Գ���������),��where you will be seen by a National Public Healthcare doctor. These doctors’ services may be limited to prescriptions and refills, medical consultations and the dressing of minor wounds. This may also ask for a fee, depending on the local and regional rules. These public centers may also offer telephone consultations, although you will probably need to be able to speak Italian to use this option.

Are you having an emergency?

In an emergency where you require immediate attention, or to call an ambulance, dial 112 from any telephone in Italy. No country code is necessary if you are calling from within Europe.

If you are able, go to a hospital emergency department (pronto soccorso). All foreigners in Italy have the right to be treated in an emergency, whether or not they have proof of insurance.

Do you need to see a specialist?

You may ask your GP to refer you to a specialist or you can choose one on your own. However, if you do require attention from a specialist and want to take advantage of social security benefits, you must take your doctor’s referral with you when you go to the specialist. Specialists who work within the SSN have their consulting rooms (ambulatorio) in state hospitals, local health authority buildings or other centers. Some private specialists (privati accreditati) also treat social security patients. It is important to know that if you have X-rays or laboratory tests done, you must collect the results yourself and take them to your doctor or specialist.